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Understanding Why You Baby Likes to Bury Their Face

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A caregiver gently holds a sleepy baby with the face fully uncovered beside a completely bare crib.

There can be several reasons why your baby likes to bury their face. Whether it’s in your chest, a soft blanket, or a pillow, this behaviour can be puzzling for new parents. This article seeks to demystify why babies engage in this behaviour and provides tips on ensuring your baby’s safety during such times.

Why Does My Baby Bury Their Face?

Babies, especially newborns, find comfort in close contact. They may bury their face in your chest or shoulder as a source of comfort and security. The familiar scent and warmth often soothe them. However, it’s crucial to monitor them closely during this to prevent suffocation.

Baby Likes to Bury Face: Safety Concerns

While this behaviour is natural, it’s important to remember that a baby’s nose and mouth should always be clear to allow proper breathing. It’s advisable not to let babies bury their face in soft materials like blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals, which might pose a suffocation risk.

Tips to Safely Soothe Your Baby

Instead of soft blankets or pillows, try using wearable blankets or swaddles that won’t cover your baby’s face. Keep the crib or sleep area free from loose bedding or soft toys.

Why Does My Baby Bury Her Face When Sleeping?

Babies often bury their face while sleeping as a way to soothe and comfort themselves. This act simulates the close contact they experienced in the womb, providing a sense of security. However, it’s essential to monitor this behavior due to the risk of suffocation.

Head Burrowing: A Sign of Autism or Normal Behavior?

While head burrowing can be seen in children with autism, it is also a common behavior among many infants. If you notice your baby frequently burrowing her head into the mattress or your arm, it’s essential not to jump to conclusions but observe for other signs and consult a pediatrician if necessary.

Baby’s Attachment to Blankets and Other Items

Your baby may be attached to a specific blanket or item because it offers comfort and security. Babies often associate these items with their parents or caregivers, making them feel safe. It’s important to ensure these items are safe for babies and don’t pose a suffocation risk.

Baby Rubbing Face and Crying: Is Something Wrong?

If your baby rubs her face and cries, it can indicate discomfort. This could be due to tiredness, teething, or irritation from allergies. Consult your healthcare provider if this behavior persists or seems to cause significant distress.

Can My Baby Sleep with a Blanket Over Her Face?

While some babies find comfort in sleeping with a blanket over their face, it poses a risk of suffocation. It’s important to follow safe sleep guidelines, which advise against using loose bedding for babies under one year of age.

Baby Touching Her Face: Is This Normal?

Babies often touch their faces as part of their self-soothing mechanism. This behavior can be normal unless it appears to be causing discomfort or if the baby seems excessively reliant on it for comfort.

Is it Bad to Touch a Baby’s Face?

Touching a baby’s face isn’t inherently bad. However, it’s important to ensure that hands are clean to protect your baby from germs and bacteria.

How SleepBaby.org Can Help

Understanding your baby’s behaviours can be a stepping stone towards establishing better sleep routines. SleepBaby.org can provide guidance and support in deciphering these habits, including why your baby likes to bury their face. Our resources help you develop safe and effective sleep routines for your little one, ensuring their comfort without compromising safety. Our simple, trusted methods can lead to peaceful nights for your baby – and for you.

Conclusion

While your baby’s inclination to bury their face can be a sign of seeking comfort, it’s essential to ensure their safety at all times. Close monitoring and following safe sleep guidelines can provide your baby the comfort they seek without any potential hazards. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult with a pediatrician or a baby sleep expert.

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What viewers said10 comments · 4 replies

Archived comments from the original Baby Sleep Miracle presentation. Not independently verified by SleepBaby.org; individual experiences vary.

Samantha HigginsOakland, FL

Thank you so much for this video! I had no idea about the dangers of baby swings :O

Regina WillburthWorcester, UK

Hi Mary-Ann. I have a question: Is method in any way similar to the ones recommended by Dr Bucknam, Dr. Weissbluth or Dr. Karp? We tried those but none of them help.

Mary-Ann SchulerBabySleepMiracle.com

Hi Regina, thank you for your question. The short answer is no. The techniques I share in my guide are based on newest scientific research and this is why I have never seen any approach similar to the one I recommend.

Mirella CruzEl Paso, TX

This method really works! I tried it on my son Jesus and after just one week he went from waking up more than 5 times a night to waking up just once or twice. You are a lifesaver, Mary-Ann!

Judy LeeFremont, CA

I'm truly impressed with how much information you share in your video. And all for free! I can feel that you truly care about mothers like myself, and that's hard to find these days. I have recommended your site to several of my friends already.

Chloe JacksonLansing, MI

Mary-Ann, our child suffers from autism. Is your approach still suited?

Mary-Ann SchulerBabySleepMiracle.com

Chloe, I made sure my method can be used with any child, even babies who are special like yours. Please note that I'm not a doctor and that I always advice to consult with your physician because nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of your love.

Heide SommerHamburg, Germany

Hallo Mary-Ann, I'm from Germany. Do you have your guide in German?

Mary-Ann SchulerBabySleepMiracle.com

Hello Heide, we do! Normally you should already see our video in German. If not, please contact our support so they can guide you

Heide SommerHamburg, Germany

Thenk you for your answer, Mary-Ann!

Audrey RyanKenosha, WI

I just completed your approach and I have to say, it worked almost too well. Yes, it took a bit of getting used to with your bedtime routine but the difference is huge. My son George used to take 1 hours to go down and now he's firmly asleep in no more than 10 minutes! You're the best!

Richard ConnerSchaumburg, IL

It seems I'm the only man watching this video, lol! What you shared about the 'emotional backpack' made immediate sense to me and I can't wait to help my little girl Mila to unpack it!

Kaylee NicholasCanton, OH

Hey there, just discovered your site and this really sounds different. Just wanted to say thanks for sharing :)

Genesis HudsonBismarck, North Dakota, ND

For everyone who's still thinking about getting Mary-Ann's guide I want to advise you to go ahead. I wasn't sure myself but now I'm so thankful I invested in this program. It made a huge difference in our life as a family and yes, my baby girl does sleep through the night now.

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