Answer: It’s probably just come from his own developmental stage, becoming a toddler and him learning how to test the boundaries and exhibit some independence. All very normal and age appropriate. Hard as this can be, one of the best ways to deal with this will be you and your partner walking away. If you invest lots of lovely attention and energy into him when he’s hitting himself, he will learn that you react to it. For a toddler, any attention is better than none.
Try to avoid him becoming overtired, over hungry and bored – I know this can be a challenge but all of these states can become a catalyst for “emotional meltdowns” in toddlers. If you see him about to get upset and hit himself, try distraction, this can really work well. Otherwise, just ensure he is safe and in a place where he cannot hurt himself and direct your attention elsewhere. Although this can be very hard, it really is a remarkably effective strategy. He will outgrow this and you don’t want him to develop or learn to develop skills where he knows he can get a reaction from you.
Cheers
Jane