New mouthing, hitting, vocalising, laughing or running away can signal communication, sensory seeking, pain, anxiety, a routine change or an unmet need—not simply “bad behaviour.” First protect safety: lock hazardous products, supervise exits and create an emergency elopement plan. Note what happened before, during and after the behaviour, plus sleep, illness, constipation, dental pain and environmental changes. Offer safe sensory alternatives and calm, brief instructions. Avoid punishment during distress. Share the pattern with the child’s paediatrician and occupational or behavioural professional, especially when the change is sudden, intense or unsafe. Seek urgent medical help after suspected poisoning, injury, breathing difficulty or loss of awareness.
Trusted reference: CDC guidance on wandering and safety.