15 month old and slapping

[delboysfileofax]

Hi, I was hoping someone may be able to offer some advice. Our 15 month old boy keeps slapping people in the face when he's picked up. sometimes when he's cross and other times for no reason at all. (he does this to adults and other children) does anyone have any pointers please? I have tried taking his hands and putting them in my face, saying gently in a calming voice but to no end. Anyone else had this issue?

[Roseland]

We had this for a little while with DD at that age. We just said a firm "no" and put her down / to one side as soon as she did it. I don't think it is malicious but she just liked getting a reaction. We tried to avoid giving her that reaction if you see what I mean. She hasn't done it for a while now (not sure if that is due to us or growing out of it!)

[delboysfileofax]

As simple as it sounds I haven't yet considered putting him down! I have been too fixated on getting him to be gentle/controlling his arms! Will certainly give it a go and hope that he learns slapping = no cuddle. Thank you

[Roseland]

My first instincts were always to pay her attention so it isn't an obvious one to step away. Hope it helps for you!

[clara85]

My 15 month old is exactly the same , does it in excitement or happyness ! It is just a phase and should pass quickly :) Taking his hands and saying "gentle hands" and showing him how to gently pat / rub seems to work eventually as my poor cat has gone from being beaten to now comming up for cuddles with DS1 who is 2.5 now, but has started the slapping stage from ds2 lol