As a parent, understanding your baby’s needs is essential for their well-being, and hunger is one of the most common signals they will communicate. However, newborns can’t yet verbalize their needs, so it’s important to recognize the subtle signs they give when they’re hungry. These signs may vary from gentle cues to more intense signals, and being able to identify them will help you respond promptly, ensuring your baby gets the nourishment they need at the right time. In this guide, we’ll explore the key behaviors and signs that indicate your baby is ready to feed.
When your baby is hungry and in need of feeding, there are several signs to look out for. Initially, the baby will become more active and alert, starting to move around. One of the first behaviors you’ll notice is rooting, a natural instinct where babies turn their head and make sucking motions in search of the breast, much like when they are preparing to feed. This is a key sign that the baby is ready for breastfeeding.
As the hunger grows, the baby will begin to show additional signs, such as sucking on their own hands or clothing. The hunger will intensify, and you may see the baby become more restless, squirming or moving their body in an attempt to latch on. A proper latch is essential during breastfeeding, as it ensures your baby is feeding effectively and comfortably. The baby might even try to position themselves as if to breastfeed.
As hunger increases further, the baby will become more frantic. This can be seen in the baby quickly turning their head from side to side, searching for the mother, trying to establish the right latch for nursing. In the final stage of hunger, the baby will start crying, signaling an urgent need for milk and expressing distress from not being fed. These are clear indications that your baby is ready to feed, and it’s important to recognize these cues to ensure timely and effective breastfeeding.