HomeAnswersPediatricsbaby sleepMy 13-month-old son has a self-soothing mechanism and fidgets with my eyes. How to stop this?

How to stop fidgeting as a self-soothing mechanism in a 13-month-old?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 20, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 8, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My son, who is 13 months old, has a very peculiar self-soothing mechanism. It was alright in the beginning, but now it is getting intense day by day as he is not able to sleep without doing that. My question is, will this stop on its own, or should I intervene now itself? If so, how should I make this stop? He is fidgeting with my eyes a little rough for a long time till he gets sleepy. It started when he was 8 months of age.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Fidgeting with your eyes that is too rough may hurt you, and you need to be careful. You should not get any problems or injury to your eyes. One way is you need to stop it abruptly, taking his hands in your hands, and also you can keep your eyes closed or wear protective glasses. He is going to be upset and maybe crying or not sleeping. You need to be tolerant of his crankiness. At this age, they usually forget these things in 48 to 72 hours. Another way, at the time of his sleep, let him be with someone else who is close to him, like his father, grandparents, etc. Again, he may not be sleeping comfortably for a couple of days. It is trial and error. As I mentioned, the majority of kids of this age will be comfortable after two to three days.

Still, if you have something more to discuss, connect with me on chat.

Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prakash Chandra Girdhar Lal Nagar
Dr. Prakash Chandra Girdhar Lal Nagar

Child Health

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

baby sleepsleep pattern

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pediatrics

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy