The idea that tickling babies is harmless fun is being challenged as experts note it can actually cause stress rather than joy for infants. Babies, especially in the first few months of life, may laugh due to reflexes, but they often cannot interpret the sensation as playful. Tickling can affect an infant’s breathing and heart rate and may trigger signs of discomfort like crying or wincing. Gentle bonding activities such as eye contact, skin-to-skin contact, and simple interactive play are recommended instead. Dr Amit Gupta, Senior Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, emphasises caution when tickling young babies and suggests stopping if they show any stress signals.