What’s really going on in your toddler‘s little head when she shoves peas in her ear, guzzles bathwater, or strips naked in the store? We asked experts to interpret little kids’ oddest behaviors and give advice on the sanest ways to handle them.

Only wanting his father

Hanging out with Daddy meets a particular need. Around 12 months, kids start to realize that they get something different from each parent. Mothers tend to be more nurturing and calming, while fathers are generally more playful. Your child might be in the mood for the loud, fun way Dad helps him brush his teeth. Or it might be something as simple as wanting extra time with your spouse because he’s been at work all day.

Shoving every little thing up his nose or into his ear

Your toddler isn’t just curious about the world around him — his body is exciting new terrain too. Your child has discovered he has this body, and it’s all his and it’s fascinating! Inserting beads, peas, rocks, and whatever other orifice-size items he can find into his nostrils or ears is part of his exploration.

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Drinking bathwater

To your toddler, it’s like she’s at a big tea party and she’s sitting in the teapot. Although it’s unlikely your kid will get sick from sipping bathwater, tell her to stop and take away cup-shaped bath toys, washcloths, and anything else she’s putting up to her mouth. If she still slurps, distract her or drain the tub and call it quits.

Banging her head over and over again on the crib railing before she goes to sleep

Until toddlers have the words to tell you when they’re tired or anxious, they have to rely on nonverbal ways to comfort themselves, and head-banging is one of them. While it looks (and sounds!) freaky and dangerous, it’s a very common and usually harmless habit, Your kid will probably grow out of this behavior by age 3. In the meantime, it’s fine to ignore it.

Taking off his clothes anytime, anywhere

Little kids will happily bare everything for several reasons. First, understanding a complex concept like modesty is way over your child’s head at this point. Plus, toddlers are still learning about the difference between public and private behavior. Being able to disrobe is also a source of pride, and he might do it to seize control — you may have put him in a cute suit, but that doesn’t mean he has to stay in it!

What is your toddler’s weirdest behavior?

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