Your baby is likely squeezing you as a way of exploring and learning about the world around them. For babies between 6-12 months, squeezing, pinching, and even hair-pulling are all part of this developmental process.
Here's a breakdown of why your baby might be squeezing you:
- Exploration: Babies use their senses to explore. Squeezing is a way for them to experience different textures and sensations. They are trying to understand what happens when they apply pressure to something.
- Cause and Effect: During this developmental stage (6-12 months), babies are beginning to understand cause and effect. They are learning that their actions (squeezing) can produce a reaction (your response).
- Communication: While they may not have the words to express themselves, squeezing can be a form of communication. It could indicate excitement, a need for attention, or even frustration.
- Sensory Input: Squeezing can provide your baby with sensory input. It is a way to stimulate their sense of touch and understand their own strength.
While this behavior is normal, it's important to teach your baby gentle touch. Here are a few suggestions:
- Gentle Redirection: When your baby squeezes too hard, gently remove their hand and say "Ouch, that hurts. Let's be gentle."
- Model Gentle Touch: Show your baby how to pet or gently touch things. You can demonstrate this with a toy or on yourself.
- Offer Alternatives: Provide your baby with safe objects to squeeze, like soft toys or stress balls.
Remember that this behavior is a phase. With consistent and gentle guidance, your baby will learn appropriate ways to interact with the world around them.
