Why Does My Baby Hit Their Head When Falling Asleep?

If you’ve noticed that your baby hits their head when falling asleep (or you hear rhythmic thumps from the crib), you’re not alone. It can look alarming, but for many babies and toddlers, head banging is a temporary, self-soothing behavior that happens around bedtime.

This guide will help you understand what’s going on, what you can do tonight, and when it’s worth checking in with your paediatrician. We’ll keep it practical, calm, and evidence-aware.

Free download: Age-based sleep schedule template (plus a bedtime routine checklist).

Understanding the issue: why babies head bang before sleep

Rhythmic movements (like head banging, rocking, or rolling) can show up in infancy and toddlerhood, especially in the lead-up to sleep. Sleep researchers commonly describe head banging as a behavior that’s usually benign and often linked to self-soothing. Some explanations include:

Self-soothing: The steady rhythm may help a baby settle and drift off.
Sensory/vestibular input: Repetitive movement can be calming for some kids.
Overtiredness or stress: Babies may do it more when they’re wound up, overstimulated, or anxious about bedtime.

In many cases, it peaks during the toddler years and fades on its own. Sleep Foundation notes it’s often not a health concern and is rarely associated with harm when basic safety precautions are in place. (Sleep Foundation: Babies & Head Banging at Night)

What “normal” head banging can look like

Every child is different, but common patterns include:

Happens right before sleep or after brief night wakings
Looks rhythmic (repeating every second or two)
Lasts a few minutes (even if it feels like forever to you)
Child seems otherwise well and settles afterward

Healthline describes head banging as a behavior that can be within the range of normal—especially when it’s limited to nap time/bedtime and the child is otherwise developing typically. (Healthline: Baby Banging Head on Purpose)

Normal vs worrisome: a quick checklist

Often normal (reassuring signs)

Only happens around sleep (not during the day)
No injuries, bruising, or swelling
Your baby is meeting milestones and acting typically when awake
Settles and sleeps afterward

Worth a paediatrician check-in (red flags)

Injury (bruises, bleeding, swelling) or repeated hard impacts
Happens throughout the day, not just at bedtime
Sleep is significantly disrupted and your child is very tired in the day
Head banging continues well beyond the toddler years
You notice other concerns (e.g., developmental delays, unusual movements, or loss of skills)

Sleep Foundation specifically suggests talking to a doctor if there are signs of injury, poor sleep/daytime impairment, daytime episodes, or persistence after toddlerhood. (source)

What to do tonight (practical, parent-tested steps)

You don’t need to “fix” this in one night. The goal is to keep your baby safe and support better settling.

1) Make the sleep space safer (without adding unsafe extras)

Ensure the crib is sturdy and assembled correctly.
Keep the sleep surface firm and flat.
Avoid pillows, loose blankets, and crib bumpers for babies these can increase risk in the sleep space.
If the crib is near a wall, move it slightly away to reduce noise and vibration.

2) Reduce overtiredness (often a big trigger)

Try an earlier bedtime for a few nights.
Watch for sleepy cues (glazed eyes, fussiness, yawning) and start wind-down sooner.
Keep naps age-appropriate and consistent.

3) Add calm, rhythmic comfort before bed

Dim lights + predictable routine (bath, massage, pajamas, story, cuddle)
White noise or a steady fan (consistent sound can help)
Gentle rocking, slow dancing, or “shush + pat” for a minute or two

4) Don’t accidentally reinforce it (if your baby is doing it for attention)

If your baby is safe and you’re confident it’s the usual bedtime head banging, try not to rush in immediately every single time. Some kids learn that banging gets a big reaction. Calm, boring check-ins (instead of big interventions) can help over time.

Nighttime fears and separation anxiety (yes, even in little ones)

Some babies and toddlers head bang more when they’re going through a developmental leap, dealing with separation anxiety, or adjusting to changes (travel, daycare, new sibling). If bedtime feels “charged,” focus on the basics: consistency, connection, and a calm wind-down.

How babywearing can help with soothing

If your baby seeks rhythmic movement to settle, babywearing can provide that same calming input, with the added benefit of closeness and hands-free comfort. A short babywearing walk in the early evening (or a gentle bounce while you tidy up) can help your baby downshift before bedtime.

Not salesy, just honest: If your baby calms with rhythm, babywearing can be one gentle tool in your toolkit, especially during fussy evenings when arms get tired.

FAQ

Can head banging cause brain damage?

In typical bedtime head banging, serious injury is uncommon, especially when the sleep space is safe and the behavior is mild. If you notice bruising, swelling, or hard impacts, speak with your paediatrician.

Should I stop my baby from doing it?

If your baby is safe and it’s brief bedtime head banging, many experts suggest focusing on safety and routine rather than trying to stop it forcefully, which can backfire or increase stress. If it’s intense or causing injury, get medical guidance.

Is head banging a sign of autism?

Head banging alone is not a reliable sign of autism. If you have broader concerns (communication, social interaction, development), it’s appropriate to discuss them with your paediatrician for a proper assessment.

When to consult your paediatrician

Reach out if you see injury, daytime head banging, major sleep disruption, or other developmental concerns. When in doubt, trust your instincts, your paediatrician can help you rule out underlying issues and suggest next steps.

Get the free Sleep Schedule Template

Includes: age-based schedule blocks, bedtime routine checklist, and a quick “overtired vs undertired” guide.

Key takeaways

Head banging before sleep is often a normal self-soothing behavior.
Prioritise a safe sleep space and a consistent, calming bedtime routine.
Check in with your paediatrician if there’s injury, daytime episodes, major sleep disruption, or ongoing concerns.
Babywearing can offer rhythmic comfort and closeness that helps some babies settle, especially in the evening.

References:
Sleep Foundation — Babies & Head Banging at Night
Healthline — Baby Banging Head on Purpose