My 15 month old thinks it's funny to hit me in the face!

[Ellie78]

Has anyone else experienced this? Keep telling myself it is just a phase but am getting a bit desperate. Has been about 2 weeks now that my boy has been slapping myself and my husband in the face when we are holding him. Often whilst laughing!
He doesn't seem to do it with anyone else, just us. We have tried just saying no and trying to teach him to be gentle (like with the cat!) but he just carries on. So have now started putting him in his cot for a few minutes after explaining to him that it's not nice to hit. He usually just does the same when we get him out....Not sure what else to do. Also don't want to create negative associations with his bed as he is a really good sleeper!!
Just need a bit of reassurance really - will this pass or will he be beating me up for the rest of my life?!!

Yes, it will pass. Have you tried grabbing his hands, putting them to his sides and holding them there. Look into his eyes and say firmly "No hitting". Do this every time he goes to hit.

I would avoid the cot because, as you say, it could easily end up with him associating it with being in trouble.

Thanks
Have tried that but to no avail as yet....guess he will get the message at some point
What do you think about having a travel cot downstairs we could use for time out when he really doesn't stop? Am running out of ideas!

Hi Ellie.My 18 month old has been doing this for a wee while. I put him down and hold his hand saying STOP, that's naughty. He actually does it when he's cross, though (which is often). They'll grown out of it soon.

Both my DD's did this, at that age it's not worth getting in a big tizz over as they genuinely don't realise it hurts (look at how toddlers try to pet an animal)
I just used to hold their hands and say 'Gently' if it wasn't too hard or 'OW. No hitting' if it was harder.
If he does it put him down off your laps and say No and then don't look at him.
This way he gets no attention at all, whereas putting him in his cot and explaining things means 'Hit mummy in the face, she carries me around, and talks to me and shows me things(how to be gentle)'
Just remember, toddlers are idiots!

This too will pass

Ha ha! Hadn't thought of that. Think my toddler being an idiot is rubbing off on me! Have lost the ability to think rationally any more and am terrified my little boy is some kind of violent bully!
Thanks guys you have made me feel much better. Onwards and upwards