If you’ve ever wondered “is it normal for my baby to do this?”, I want to reassure you right away: yes, in the vast majority of cases, it’s normal.
I often experience this myself in conversations with parents. At certain stages, your child changes quickly, very quickly. And you find yourself doubting, wondering if you’re doing something wrong.
In reality, many behaviors that unsettle us are simply part of development. I’ll explain the most common ones.

1. Sleep regressions

Your baby was sleeping well, then everything changes without warning.
This is often what’s called a sleep regression, common around 4 months, 8-10 months, 12 months, and 18 months.What I often see is that parents think “something is wrong,” when it’s usually the brain developing very quickly.
It’s normal, even if it’s demanding.

2. Tantrums

A little “no” and everything explodes. Between 12 and 24 months, this is very common.
Your child isn’t trying to manipulate you. They’re experiencing a very strong emotion but don’t yet have the words to express it. This is often when I remind parents that behavior is a form of language.

3. Refusing diaper changes

You may notice your baby moves much more or completely refuses diaper changes.
This is a normal stage.
They want to explore, they want to move, and above all, they’re starting to want to control what they experience.
This is also one reason why care routines sometimes become more complicated.

4. Biting, hitting, or throwing

This behavior often causes concern.
But at this age, your child is testing, observing reactions, and expressing strong emotions without filters. It’s not a sign of “bad behavior,” it’s a stage of emotional development.

5. Separation anxiety

Your baby cries when you leave the room.
It can be hard to experience, but it’s actually a positive sign: your child understands your existence even when you’re not there.
They just haven’t yet understood that you always come back.

6. The constant “no”

Between 18 and 24 months, the “no” becomes almost automatic.
It’s a way for your child to explore their autonomy.
Even if it can be tiring, it’s an important stage.

7. Unstable naps

One day one nap, the next day two, then back again.
Sleep is not linear between 6 months and 3 years.
It’s often when parents look for a “perfect routine,” but it constantly changes.

8. Clinging to a parent

Some children want to be constantly in the arms or very close to a particular parent.
It’s often a phase of intense attachment, especially during transitions or new learning.

9. Refusing certain foods

A food loved yesterday may be refused today.
Tastes change a lot at this age, and it can vary from day to day.

10. Wanting to do everything alone

Your child wants to participate in everything, even if it takes much longer.
It’s a strong sign of developing autonomy.

11. Resistance to care

Bathing, diaper changes, dressing… some children become sensitive to these moments.
Often, it’s because they want more control over their body and movements.