Head slapping

My ds is 16mths. Just last month he's started to slap himself in the head. It's not a tired thing, maybe a frustrated thing. And it's not just a slap, it's a hard slap. And not just one slap, it's about 4-5 ( I haven't counted) It can be any time of the day, in the car, walking thru the lounge - it just comes out of nowhere. He doesn't seem angry when he does it, but it's sure to hurt. I just don't know how to stop him or why he does it. Any suggestions on why he does it, or how I can get him to stop? (he does throw tantrums, but this is nothing like them):o

*bump* :)

I posted a thread recently about something similar. DS was head banging. I don't know how to link to the thread sorry.

I totally ignored it (except in dangerous situations like banging on the glass door) and thankfully, he just grew out of that stage. Took a month or so.

HTH
Spring

Rhianon, that sounds quite alarming. I wonder what the little man is up to?! Perhaps he likes the shock of it (either for his own sensory experience, or the reaction he gets from others). How do you respond?

What's your DS's reaction to his own behaviour? As in, does he ever look surprised that he hit himself? I only ask because (and please, please, please know that this is VERY unlikely) involuntary hitting may be a tic as seen in tourettes. I was hesitant to write that at all as I don't wish to alarm you and like I said - this is a highly unusual and unlikely explanation. I'm afraid that, as a Psych, it's where my mind tends to go - to what I've studied. Sure you'll find another reason though - just keep an eye on it.

Hopefully some Mummies here with lots of experience with the weird things that kids do will drop by and give you some more useful advice soon.