First, let's dispatch with a red herring. You are now already ahead of the crowd.
Ear pulling is one of the most common reasons for pediatric office visits.
The pain builds as the pressure in the ear builds, from a dull ache to a sharp stabbing pain. The pressure is relieved intermittently, so the pain comes in waves. The pain is worse at night. Most ear infections, however, occur in children under age two. They often have no pain the following morning.