No, It’s Not Just Your Kid That’s Weird

 

Any parent or caregiver of a toddler knows these years are packed with unpredictable moments—tantrums, screaming, hitting, biting, gagging, and a host of other baffling behaviors. One minute you’re holding your breath, the next you’re laughing in disbelief.

But what’s really going on in your toddler’s mind when they stuff peas in their ears, drink bathwater, or suddenly strip down in the middle of a store? We’re diving into the surprising reasons behind these quirky toddler antics—and offering practical tips to help you handle them with your sanity intact.

 

 

 

Getting Naked Whenever They Want

 

Many toddlers seem to have a deep love for being naked; as soon as they get home they strip leaving a trail of clothes from the front door.

 

There are a few reasons little ones are so eager to bare it all. For starters, the idea of modesty is still way beyond their developmental stage. And because they’re still figuring out the difference between public and private behavior, it’s easy for them to think, If I can take off my clothes at bath time, why not in the middle of the post office?

 

Taking off their clothes can also feel empowering—it’s something they can do all by themselves, and they might use it as a way to assert independence. Until they’re old enough to understand that the world isn’t a clothing-optional zone, set clear, simple boundaries: Let them know it’s fine to be naked at home, but clothes stay on when you’re out in public or have guests over.

 

 

 

Banging Their Heads 

 

Until toddlers can express when they’re tired, anxious, or overwhelmed, they often turn to physical behaviors to cope—and head-banging is one of them.

 

While it looks and sounds scary to parents and caregivers, most kids outgrow head-banging by age 3; in the meantime, there’s usually no need to intervene. Instead, focus on offering other calming bedtime routines, like soft music or a gentle back rub. Avoid scolding or drawing too much attention to it, as this can unintentionally reinforce the behavior. That said, if your child is injuring themselves or seems to use head-banging as a way to withdraw from the world, it’s best to consult your pediatrician.

 

 

 

Breath Holding 

 

Breath-holding is your toddler’s dramatic spin on a classic tantrum. It usually happens when they’re overwhelmed—especially if they have a naturally intense temperament or a flair for dramatics.

 

The most effective way to discourage this behavior is to stay calm and avoid giving in. If you cave to their demands, you may unintentionally teach them that breath-holding is a way to get what they want.

 

Yes, it’s unsettling to see your child go red—or even blue—in the face, but try not to panic. Even in rare cases when they briefly pass out, they’ll instinctively start breathing again. Still, if your child ever does faint, it’s a good idea to let your pediatrician know, just to rule out any underlying concerns.

 

 

Drinking Their Bathwater Like It’s Fine Wine

 

You offer your toddler water all day with little interest—then suddenly, the bath turns into an all-you-can-drink buffet. So what gives?

 

Think of it this way: to your toddler, the tub feels like one big tea party—and they’re sitting right in the teapot, says Ann Douglas. While the occasional sip of bathwater probably won’t make them sick (even though it’s super gross), it’s still a habit worth curbing.

 

Gently ask them to stop and remove any cup-like toys, washcloths, or anything else they’re using to “serve” themselves. If the slurping continues, try redirecting their attention. And if that doesn’t work, it might be time to drain the tub and wrap up bath time early.

 

 

 

Noses and Ears are are NOT Free Storage

 

Your toddler isn’t just exploring the world—they’re exploring themselves. And what better way to do that than by shoving peas, beads, rocks, or yesterday’s snack into their nose or ears? To them, their body is just another exciting science experiment… with storage compartments.

 

If you’re already on high alert for choking hazards, you’re ahead of the game. But don’t let your guard down—items like crayon bits, spaghetti, or lone french fries might seem harmless but are perfectly toddler-sized for stuffing into unexpected places.

 

Catch them mid-insertion? Keep your cool and offer a simple, calm reminder: “Little things are for holding, not for putting in our body,” or “Food goes in your mouth, not your nose.” (Yes, you’ll probably say it more than once.)

 

If something’s already been lodged in there, try having them gently blow their nose—it might pop right out. But if it’s stuck, or if something’s made it deep into an ear canal, skip the tweezers and head to your healthcare provider for a safe removal. No one wants spaghetti in their ear canal… not even once.

 

 

Functioning On Only 3 Goldfish Crackers and Air or Eats You Out of House and Home-There’s No In Between

 

Making a meal for a toddler often feels like you’re starring in your own personal cooking show—except the judge throws food on the floor and the prize is… nothing. One day, it’s all about crustless cheese sandwiches and applesauce. The next? They act like you served them poison.

 

While it can feel like a tiny, passive-aggressive power struggle, picky eating is usually more about communication than control. Most of the time when your child says, ‘I don’t like it,’ they probably really mean, ‘I don’t want it right now,’ Just like adults, toddlers have changing tastes—they just don’t have the words (or patience) to explain it.

 

Your best strategy? Keep offering a variety of foods without pressure. Food jags (aka the “I-only-eat-orange-things” phase) are normal and temporary. And if it seems like your toddler eats less than a houseplant, don’t stress—at this age, their calorie needs drop compared to babyhood. They’re growing slower now, even if their opinions are growing faster than ever.

 

 

 

Being The Only One Worthy of Wiping Your Child’s Butt is Both a Curse and a Blessing 

 

Congratulations (I guess?) your the chosen one! However, it can sting a little when your toddler pushes you away or insists on the other parent for bedtime cuddles or toothbrushing duty. But try not to take it personally—it’s really not about you. They don’t really think about other people’s feelings at this age; if you haven’t noticed yet, toddlers are rather self centered and selfish, but that’s totally normal.

 

Around age 1, kids start noticing that different people offer different experiences. Maybe they’re in the mood for the silly way your partner brushes their teeth, or maybe they just want more time with the parent who’s been gone all day. Sometimes, it’s as simple as craving a certain kind of attention in that moment.

 

The good news? These preferences are totally normal—and totally temporary. Toddlers change their minds faster than they change their socks (which, let’s be honest, isn’t often). So hang in there—your moment to be the favorite is probably right around the corner.