- Ask yourself if they’re hungry. They might be hunting for the breast or fidgeting and sucking fingers, your shoulders, or even your nose or chin! Crying is a late sign that your baby is very hungry.
- Ask yourself if your baby’s tired. Look out for a slow build-up of grunt-like cries and rubbing eyes.
- Are they uncomfortable or in pain? This is often signaled with a sudden high-pitched shriek followed by a big breath and another shriek.
- Is your baby colicky? Crying is a way for babies to communicate their needs but there are times when some babies may be inconsolable. Talk to your doctor if you think your baby has colic.
- Is your baby looking for interaction? If they are awake and alert, grabbing at your finger or an object, or playing with their hands and feet they may be showing you it’s time to play.
- Watch out for signs of fear. Baby may freeze on the spot.
- Remember they’re learning to talk. Regular babbling means they are working to communicate. Speak back to them and narrate your day to them so that they have the opportunity to hear lots of words.
- See if they want something. Once baby learns to point, they may get good at giving instructions and communicating what they are looking for.
- Find out if they just want a cuddle. Baby will soon start to raise her arms to let you know.
- See if they want to play. Baby’s eyes may become wide and bright or they may purse their lips and coo or babble. Excited movement of arms and legs are another signal that baby wants to play.
- Look out for signs your baby is content—an angelic little face smiling back at you!
Sources
Toronto Sick Kids. About Kids Health. Social and Emotional Development in Babies. https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=487&language=English Accessed September 2020.
Related articles
Next steps in baby’s solid foods adventure
Now that you’ve introduced baby to some new tastes and textures, you can start broadening their taste buds even further by offering a variety of healthy solid foods.
2 mins to read
What’s a healthy breastfeeding diet?
If you’re breastfeeding, a healthy diet is important as it can affect your baby as much as you. Get tips on what not to eat when breastfeeding and what to eat when breastfeeding.
2 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first baby. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read
How to be a confident parent: start today with six easy steps
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home, can be a daunting experience to navigate.
3 mins to read
Your baby proofing action plan
Even though they won’t be mobile at first, it’s a good idea to baby proof your house before the big arrival.
2 mins to read
10 money-saving tips for having a baby on a budget
Working out how much to save for a baby can be a daunting task.
4 mins to read
Fed up with mom guilt? Here’s how to banish unhelpful thoughts
Tired of battling mom guilt? It’s entirely normal, but pretty unhelpful if you’re navigating many other new mom emotions.
2 mins to read
Baby vaccine schedule
Early childhood immunizations are an important safeguard against serious and sometimes life-threatening illnesses for your baby.
4 mins to read
Coping with separation anxiety in babies and toddlers
Separation anxiety in toddlers is a normal and healthy part of development though it can be upsetting for you and your baby. Here are some tips to help you both cope with separation anxiety.
1 min to read
Coping with baby blues
Many moms experience feeling of postpartum blues – sometimes called the “baby blues” soon after their little one arrives.
2 mins to read
Lonely mom? 10 things to do with baby—that give something back to you
Even with a wealth of online parenting forums and a baby in your arms, it’s easy to feel isolated and lonely as a mom.
4 mins to read
Need some space? Here’s how to handle visitors after giving birth
If you’re an overwhelmed mom or dad with too many baby visitors, don’t panic. Here’s our top five tips on how to handle visitors after giving birth, giving you time to bond with your baby.
2 mins to read
Baby Feeding and Nutrition: The Guide
How will you feed your newborn?
7 mins to read
Baby Teething: Signs and Relief
Teething begins at different times for different babies, although most have already started by six months of age.
2 mins to read
Baby food allergies Vs intolerances—things to consider
Baby allergies and intolerances can develop at any time. An allergy is our immune system’s reaction to a substance it thinks is harmful.
3 mins to read
Overcoming breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally but with a bit of practice, perseverance, and a few pointers, it can get easier. Try these steps to help tackle breastfeeding problems.
2 mins to read
First-time dad tips—how to be a hands-on dad
Wondering how dads can help with newborns?
6 mins to read
Breastfeeding comebacks for unwanted questions
Fed up of everyone having an opinion on your breastfeeding? This list reads what NOT to say to a breastfeeding mom.
2 mins to read
Planet-saving tips for an eco-friendly baby
Saving the planet doesn’t have to stop because you’ve had a baby. Yes, they’re a teeny bundle of mess-creating, gadget-needing joy.
2 mins to read
Related tools
Article finder
Expert articles and tips about development, parenting support, and nutrition
Product finder
Find Nestlé Nutrition Products right for you and your baby
Checklists finder tool
Checklists and tips to help along your parenting journey
Recipe Finder
Find recipes for you and your little one.