Babies eat their hands at 3 months old primarily because it's a natural reflex for self-soothing and exploration. Sucking provides comfort, and at this age, babies are beginning to discover their hands and connect them to their mouths.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Natural Reflex and Self-Soothing: Newborns have a strong sucking reflex that helps them feed. This reflex doesn't disappear after feeding; sucking on their hands becomes a way for babies to comfort themselves when they are tired, hungry, or need reassurance. It's an early form of self-soothing.
-
Exploration and Sensory Development: Around 3 months, babies are developing their hand-eye coordination and becoming more aware of their bodies. Putting their hands in their mouths allows them to explore textures and sensations, which is crucial for sensory development. It's a way for them to learn about their own body parts.
-
Hunger Cue: While not always the case, sometimes a baby sucking on their hands can be a sign of hunger. It's worth considering if it's been a while since their last feeding.
-
Teething (Possibly): Although teething typically starts later, some babies might experience early teething symptoms. Sucking on their hands can provide relief to sore gums.
In summary, hand-eating is a normal and healthy behavior for babies at 3 months old, serving as a self-soothing mechanism, a means of exploration, and potentially a hunger cue.
