Sign 8: Rubbing Their Cheeks and Pulling on Ears – Self-Soothing Tactics
The emergence of a new tooth is a complex biological process that comes with its fair share of discomfort for your little one. One of the subtle signs that your baby might be teething is the tendency to rub their cheeks or pull on their ears. This behavior is a natural response to the discomfort they are feeling in their gums, as the nerves in the gums are connected to the ears and cheeks. Babies, in their limited understanding, think that applying pressure on these areas might alleviate their discomfort. Rubbing cheeks and pulling on ears is also a self-soothing tactic. Babies do not have the words to communicate their pain, but they are born with a set of reflexes and behaviors that help them cope with discomfort. This behavior is akin to an adult massaging their temples when they have a headache. It is an instinctual reaction to discomfort, and while it might seem worrying at first, understanding it as a natural response to teething can help parents navigate this stage with more ease.
As a parent, it’s crucial to observe this behavior closely and respond appropriately. While rubbing cheeks and pulling on ears can be a sign of teething, it can also indicate other issues like an ear infection. Therefore, discerning the cause of this behavior is important. One way to tell the difference is to check for other teething symptoms. If your baby is also drooling, biting on objects, and is irritable, then it is likely that the cheek rubbing and ear pulling are due to teething. If you notice that this behavior is accompanied by a high fever, excessive irritability, or a change in their sleeping or eating patterns, it might be time to consult a pediatrician to rule out any potential ear infection or other medical issues.
As a caregiver, your role in providing comfort and relief during this teething phase is paramount. You can help alleviate their discomfort by gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or providing them with a teething toy. Make sure that any teething toy you provide is safe, BPA-free, and appropriately sized to prevent any choking hazards. In addition to physical relief, your soothing presence and gentle words can help calm your baby. Hold them close, speak in soft tones, and provide plenty of cuddles. Sometimes, the comfort of being held and soothed is all they need to navigate through the discomfort.
Being proactive in managing their discomfort and staying patient through their fussy periods are key components in navigating this teething phase. Keep a close eye on their behavior, and be ready to provide comfort at a moment’s notice. Understand that this phase is temporary, and while it may be challenging now, it will pass. Maintain a consistent routine, ensure they are getting plenty of sleep, and provide them with the necessary teething aids and comfort measures. The consistency in routine can help provide a sense of security and normalcy, making it easier for them to cope with the ongoing changes in their body.
Teething is a monumental milestone in your baby’s development, and while it comes with its share of challenges, it is also a testament to their growth and resilience. Reflecting on this journey, understanding the behaviors associated with teething, and providing unwavering support are crucial aspects of parenting through this phase. Looking forward, as your baby navigates through the teething process, they will gradually learn to cope with the discomfort. Their self-soothing tactics of rubbing cheeks and pulling on ears will decrease as their little gums become less tender. You, as a parent, will have guided them through yet another milestone, armed with patience, understanding, and a whole lot of love. And as each new tooth makes its appearance, you’ll be there, ready to comfort, soothe, and celebrate each little toothy milestone. (8)
