DECODING YOUR NEWBORN’S LITTLE SIGNALS: A GUIDE FOR NEW PARENTS

Written by Olivia Arrow

Bringing home a newborn is incredibly exciting but also pretty overwhelming! Since they can’t yet talk to you, babies tend to communicate through little cues. Understanding what they’re trying to tell you is the key to caring for them.

Here are a few of the main ways your baby might communicate how they’re feeling:

Crying: This one is pretty obvious. Your baby could be crying because they’re hungry, uncomfortable, tired, and sometimes just feeling a little sick.

Body Language: Your baby will use their face, hands and legs to make it obvious what they’re trying to tell you. They might also clench their fists, hunch forward or arch their back.

Sounds: Babies make all sorts of little noises other than crying like grunting, cooing, and fussing. Each noise usually refers to something else.

Face Signals: Your baby’s face is the easiest place to start learning their signals. They might pout their lips, furrow their brows, yawn, or gaze in a certain direction.

So What Are Some Hunger Cues To Look Out For:

Rooting: If your little one starts to turn their head toward whatever you touch to their cheek, this sign typically means they’re hungry.

Sucking: Sometimes they might want to suck on their fists or fingers rather than on the bottle or breast, especially when they’re hungry.

Fussing: If they’re being especially fussy and whiny for a while, it could be a sign that it’s time to feed them.

Crying: If they start crying uncontrollably and won’t stop, they’ve probably been hungry for a while. Try feeding them before they get to this stage.

There Are Several Discomfort Cues To Watch Out For:

Squirming and Arching: Babies tend to wiggle and arch their back if they’re gassy, constipated, or there is some other physical discomfort.

Grunting and Fussing: If you hear grunts and other intermittent sounds while they kick around, they may be having some digestive problems.

Facial Grimacing: A wrinkled nose, pursed lips, or furrowed brow could be a hint that they’re in pain.

Fatigue Cues

Yawning: If your little one keeps yawning, it’s a pretty big sign they’re tired and need a nap.

No Appetite: If they seem disinterested in eating or fall asleep during feedings, it could mean they’re just plain exhausted.

Slow Motion: If they’re moving a lot slower than usual and aren’t really into anything, they might just need a nap.

Some Other Cues To Look Out For:

Dirty Nappy: Babies will let you know that they have a dirty nappy. You have to change that wet or messy Nappy ASAP to keep them clean and cosy.

Hiccups: Hiccups can be annoying for anyone, but they usually aren’t anything to stress over. Burping them or holding them upright can help.

Sneezing and Coughing: If your little one starts sneezing or coughing a lot, it could be a sign of a cold or something else going around. Keep an eye on them and if you think they need it, take them to the doctor.

Responding to Your Little One’s Signals

When your baby gives you clues about what they need, it’s important to react quickly and sensibly. Here are some tips to help you out:

Keep An Eye On Them: Watch their body language, expressions, and noises to figure out what they’re trying to tell you.

Get Into A Routine: Babies thrive on predictability. Try to establish regular times for feeding, sleeping and changing nappies.

Trust Your Gut: As a parent, you’ll develop a sixth sense about what your baby wants. Go with your instincts.

Don’t Overreact: Crying is a normal part of babyhood, so try not to panic every time they let out a little wail.

Ask For Help If You Need It: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to respond to your baby, don’t hesitate to reach out to your paediatrician or GP. They’re there to help!

Understanding your baby’s cues is important for taking care of them the best way possible and helping them grow up healthy and happy. Just by watching how they move their body, listen to their sounds, and look at their face, you can figure out what they need. It’s okay to take your time and trust your instincts, and if you ever feel lost or confused, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional.

By understanding and responding to your baby’s cues, you’re building a strong bond with them and making sure they feel safe and secure. This way, you can be the best parent you can be!