From the Research
Yes, it is normal for babies to snarl as part of their vocal experimentation and emotional expression. Babies typically begin making various sounds, including snarls, growls, and other unusual noises, as they develop their vocal abilities between 3-12 months of age. This behavior represents an important stage in communication development as infants explore different sounds they can produce with their mouths, tongues, and vocal cords. Snarling may also be a way babies express certain emotions like frustration, excitement, or playfulness before they can use words. Parents need not be concerned about occasional snarling sounds unless they're accompanied by signs of distress or pain. Some key points to consider when evaluating infant behavior include:
- Developmental surveillance at each well-child visit, with formal developmental screening at nine, 18, and 30 months and autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1
- The importance of responding positively to infant vocalizations, such as mirroring their sounds back to them, to encourage further vocal development and create a positive feedback loop for communication skills
- The potential for soothing techniques, such as the 4S soothing techniques (swaddling, holding at side or stomach position, shushing-white noise, swinging), to improve infant self-regulation behaviors, including sleeping, crying, and feeding 2 It is essential to prioritize the infant's overall health and well-being, and to consult with a healthcare professional if there are any concerns about their behavior or development. In terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is crucial to address any potential issues early on, as they can have a significant impact on the infant's long-term health and well-being. For example, research has shown that early identification and treatment of disruptive behavior problems in young children can help prevent more significant and impairing difficulties later on 3. Overall, snarling in babies is a normal part of their development, and parents should not be concerned unless it is accompanied by signs of distress or pain.