1-Year-Old, smacking his ears?

Question

My son just turned a year old and for the past 2 months, he's been doing this new 'thing' where he takes both of his hands and smacks them over his ears repeatedly (does this a few times a day or more). I had him checked for ear infections (not even earwax in there, let alone inflammation) and I take note of the noise levels (never too loud) and he never acts like he's in pain, but he does this so often and with such intensity, I'll admit I'm worried. Any ideas, or maybe is this a wierd kid thing?

He started after he cut 2 teeth, but he has gotten 2 more.. his hair is actually so short we haven't had to cut it yet.. and his hearing is perfect..

Answer 1

I'd be inclined to think its just a weird kid thing. It sounds and feels strange to do different things when you're a kid.

My son is just shy of 10 months, and he repeatedly slaps himself in the face, even with toys. On purpose. Its actually really funny, but I feel bad for him becuase it has to hurt. Its just part of their0 development.

Answer 2

My daughter did that when she was cutting teeth. I was worried too, so we took her to the Dr. No infection, hearing was fine etc. He said that some kids do it when they're cutting teeth b/c their ears hurt and/or it somehow relives the pain. She stopped after she finished cutting her teeth and hasn't done it since. Now she has discovered that she can stick her index fingers in her ears and "ignore" me. I think it's just a kid thing.

Answer 3

My son did that for a while. We cut his hair and he stopped doing it. Does your son have long hair?

Answer 4

My baby did this and he was cutting teeth.

Answer 5

Have his hearing checked.