Help! My baby doesn’t like grass! (Tips for Parents)

Watching your baby experience and explore all the new sounds, sights, and textures of the world is one of the many thrills of being a parent. If you have a front or back yard, you may enjoy sitting out there in the warmer months with your baby and enjoying the fresh air.

As your baby begins to sit up on her own and becomes more curious about the world around her, you may think it’s a great idea to assist her with walking around your yard or any patch of grass in the area. But then you realize… She’s terrified of the grass!

Babies have a unique way of showing their displeasure at things they’re unsure of, but their reaction to grass is always so dramatic and comical. If your baby doesn’t like grass, don’t sweat it. Here are a few reasons why your little one isn’t a fan of the spiky green stuff and what you can do about it.

What Does It Mean If My Baby Doesn’t Like Grass?

More often than not, it’s just a phase your baby is going through as they exhibit reluctance to experience new things in their world. It really depends on the baby, their disposition, and the environment they’re in. Here are a few other reasons why your baby doesn’t enjoy sitting on the lawn:

1. It’s an unfamiliar feeling for them

Think about the first few months of your baby’s life. Lots of cuddles, soft blankets and onesies, soothing baths, warm bottles, and snuggly swaddles. The floors and textures they’ve sat on or laid on have mostly been tile, wood, or carpet, and there’s usually a mat or blanket in between them. Everything about their life has been soft and comfortable.

Grass, while it may look great in a nicely landscaped yard, is not soft, cuddly, or soothing. It’s the exact opposite of those things, so maybe your baby’s reaction isn’t so far off after all!

2. They’re experiencing sensory overload

As babies’ nervous systems develop, everything can feel overwhelming in its own way. While your child may be used to soft and cozy sensations, the sharp pointy feeling of grass is an entirely new experience for them.

As your baby learns and grows, some experiences may be uncomfortable, and they will react accordingly. Sensory overload occurs when one of the five senses is overstimulated, and everything can feel intense and overwhelming.

Ultimately, when your baby expresses their distaste for sharp, strange grass, they are simply having a new experience and learning about new textures and sensations.

Try to go with the flow and don’t force anything. If they don’t want to interact with grass today, there’s always tomorrow.

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3. They’re following your lead

If you or your partner are hesitant to let your baby near the grass, or you make a silly or concerned face while watching your baby, they may pick up on your energy and behavior. If you are skeptical or hesitant, your baby may match your emotions and feelings.

Instead of holding your baby’s hands and trying to get them to walk on the grass, try sitting cross-legged in the grass and try to hold them in your lap. This shows your baby that you are comfortable, and they may relax a bit more, too.

How Can I Get My Baby to Like Grass?

If your family spends a lot of time outdoors and you want to get your baby used to grass sooner than later, here are a few things you can try:

Introduce grass slowly but consistently
Put their favorite toys or snacks in the grass so they’ll be tempted to reach for them
Set up a picnic blanket so they can sit near the grass without being touched by it
Encourage them to crawl and explore around
Take them outside every day and try to sit in or near the grass
Stay cool and don’t force them
Visit a place where other children are playing in the grass, such as a playground

If you are truly concerned about your baby’s dislike of grass, we always recommend asking your family’s pediatrician for advice from a medical professional. They know the common behaviors of babies by age, what’s normal, and what is a cause for concern, and they’ll be able to lead you in the right direction.

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Wrap up- My baby doesn’t like grass

Generally speaking, most children grow out of their fear of grass and come to love the spiky green stuff. After all, where there’s grass, there’s usually a splash pad, a playground, or some kind of game to be played. They won’t be able to stay away forever!

Your baby loves exploring. Seize this baby bonding stage. We’ve got suggestions about things you can do outside with your baby.

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