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Ask Dr. Ana: How Do I Stop My Baby From Hitting Me at Bedtime?

Parenting expert Dr. Ana answers how to calmly and effectively stop your baby from hitting you, offering practical tips to reinforce positive behavior.

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Updated: July 24, 2025
Baby and mom
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Updated: July 24, 2025

Question:

How do I stop my baby hitting me in the face? It usually happens when putting him down for bed and he cracks up afterward. So frustrating. 

Dr. Ana’s Answer:

I understand your frustration. The best thing you can do is not to give him a big reaction. Instead, every time he hits you, very calmly, take his hand, place it down on the bed or give him a teddy, and tell him in a neutral but firm voice say: “No, you don’t hit mummy”. Do this every time he hits you, and eventually he will stop.  

Don’t give him a big reaction because even if the reaction is negative, you are reinforcing the behaviour. Behaviours that are reinforced will be repeated.  

I hope this information helps and I wish you all the very best. 

Love,  

Ana 

Dr Ana Aznar 

Do you have questions for Dr. Ana? Ask for free today!



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Dr. Ana Aznar

About Ana

Dr. Ana Aznar is the founder of REC Parenting. She is a psychologist with a passion to support… Read more

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