I don't know if my friends have noticed, but many babies have a habit of biting their fingers. When babies bite their fingers, they are very cute and innocent. So, at what age can newborns bite their fingers? What should I do if my baby bites their finger? Next, let's take a closer look and learn more about it
How old can a newborn bite their fingers
Firstly, when a baby is born, their lips will spontaneously make a sucking motion when they come into contact with their mother's nipple, which is a physiological sucking reflex. When they are hungry, no matter what their lips touch, they will trigger a sucking reflex, and even spontaneously suck while sleeping.
Secondly, when a little older, most babies (90% of infants) will put their fingers in their mouths to suck when hungry, which is a normal phenomenon and parents don't need to pay too much attention to.
Thirdly, after the age of 2-3, babies will demand food when they are hungry, and this phenomenon of sucking their fingers gradually disappears.
Fourthly, if a baby is 4 years old and still eats their hands, or even bites their nails, edges, or clothing cuffs, it may be a behavioral problem that requires correction.
What should I do if a baby bites their finger
Firstly, wash your baby's hands frequently. Baby's understanding of the world is achieved through self exploration and cognition. Since finger nibbling is a stage of growth, it should be approached with a rational attitude, without the need for special medical treatment. However, attention should also be paid to the child's hygiene and health. Parents should wash their hands more frequently to reduce bacteria on their hands, and disinfect their toys. In addition, the toys they play with should not have sharp edges and corners, and safety must be considered to avoid accidental harm to the baby.
Secondly, to meet the development of the baby's oral sensitivity period. For children, eating their fingers is actually a manifestation of intellectual development. During the stage of teething, they always like to bite on things, which is normal. At this time, forcing them to restrain themselves can actually develop an aggressive personality when they grow up. To meet the development of children's oral sensitivity, provide them with easy to chew food and equip them with utensils that are not easily bitten.
Thirdly, alleviate children's psychological dependence. Some children gnawing on their fingers is actually a manifestation of emotions. When they feel nervous or sad, they always put their fingers in their mouths to gnaw. To correct this habit step by step, we need to find the source, help children relieve emotions, and improve the impact of negative emotions. Once children find the correct way to relieve emotions, they gradually forget about this habit.
Although there is no harm to babies biting their fingers, there are still a lot of bacteria on their fingers, which can cause significant harm. Parents should pay more attention to their babies' hygiene habits. Baby education should start from a young age, cultivating good and healthy lifestyle habits, healthy diet, and active exercise.
