Hunger cues
As your baby grows and goes through changes like growth spurts, their feeding needs and patterns may shift.
Instead of following a strict feeding schedule, it's more helpful to watch for signs that your baby is hungry.
Did you know?
Crying is a late hunger cue. By the time your baby is crying, they may already be upset or difficult to settle, making feeding harder. Recognising the earlier signs of hunger can help make feeding smoother and more relaxed for both of you.
Early Hunger Cues
Look out for these gentle signals that your baby is ready to feed:
- Opening their mouth
- Turning their head from side to side
- Stirring or becoming more alert
- Showing the rooting reflex
- Bringing hands to their mouth
Mid-Hunger Cues
If early cues are missed, you might notice more active signs:
- Increased movement or restlessness
- More frequent hand-to-mouth motions
- Sucking on lips or hands
- Lip-smacking or sucking noises
What is the rooting reflex?
The rooting reflex is a newborn’s natural instinct to find food. When you gently stroke your baby’s cheek or the area around their mouth, they’ll turn their head in that direction and open their mouth, ready to feed.