Erica was surprised at the extent of Charles’ head banging (although she should have read this weblog in order to prepare for her Summer Adventure). What seems to be different for Charles is that his head banging is an expression of either happiness or affection. He doesn’t do it when he’s upset or mad. Instead Charles’ banging his head is much more of a spontaneous expression of happiness. Or affection. Such as when Dad comes home and Charles does a full tilt head bang into Dad’s thigh. Three times. In one evening. In the same spot. Dad’s walk now signals how affectionate Charles has been. Frequently when I change Charles (which he doesn’t like much) he gets happy when I’ve finished cleaning and start putting on a fresh diaper. At the point he’ll grab my arm, give it a hug and then lift his head while simultaneously pulling either my hand or elbow into his forehead.
But if you hang with Charles, here’s a tip. One warning sign of a big head bang is a smile from Charles and a hug. That’s joy and affection, a critical indicator of impending impact. You’ve been warned.