Why Does My Baby Scratch His Head While Sleeping?
Babies are very mysterious and often leave parents wondering why their little one does certain things. One common behavior is babies scratching their heads while they sleep. This can be a source of worry or concern for new parents, but there is no need to worry. Let’s explore why your baby may be scratching their head while they’re sleeping!
Itchy Skin
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is common in babies and young children. It is a skin condition that typically causes red, irritated rashes that can be itchy and uncomfortable. Babies may scratch their heads while sleeping in an attempt to soothe the itch.
Habit or Comfort
Sometimes babies will scratch their heads while they sleep simply out of habit. They may find it comforting and a way to self-soothe. This behavior can be difficult to break, but is nothing to worry about.
Preventing the Scratching
If your baby’s skin is particularly itchy, talk to your pediatrician. They can provide recommendations on ways to reduce the itching, which may help to reduce the scratching. Additionally, if the scratching is out of habit, there are a few tips you can follow to break it:
- Ensure your baby is comfortable. Make sure your baby’s clothes aren’t irritating them, and their mattress is supportive. The more comfortable your baby is, the less likely they are to scratch their head.
- Provide soothing experiences before bed. Bath time or reading a book before bed may be a way to promote relaxation and encourage other sleep behaviors.
- Reduce the stimulation before bed. Reducing background noise or light in baby’s room can help to create a calm environment.
Overall, it is normal for a baby to scratch their head while they are sleeping. It is often a sign of itchy skin, a simple habit they’ve picked up, or a way to self-soothe. If you are concerned about the scratching becoming excessive, talk to your pediatrician about ways to reduce the itching or ways to break the habit.