Baby Cues
Feeding “on cue”
Follow your new baby’s lead
Responding to your baby’s cues helps them feel safe and cared for, as well as satisfied and content. Babies know what they need; listening to them helps prevent under or overfeeding.
Newborn tummies are very small!
In the beginning, there may be times when your baby eats a little bit nearly all the time. This is normal. The frequent feeding helps bring in a good milk supply for you.
Hunger cues
Signs that your baby is ready to eat
- Fluttering eyes/waking from sleep
- Nuzzling into the breast
- Rooting (opens mouth and turns head)
- Bringing hand to mouth
- Sucking on tongue or hand
- Tight fists held at center of chest
- Crying (a late sign of hunger)
Fullness cues
Signs that your baby is full
- Eating slows down
- Turns face away
- Stops sucking
- Relaxed arms, falling away from body
- Falls asleep