Many parents believe their baby is hungry only once they start crying — but crying is actually a late hunger cue. By the time a newborn reaches this stage, their nervous system is often dysregulated, making feeding more difficult and stressful.
Recognizing hunger earlier makes feeding calmer and more effective.
✨ Early hunger cues include stirring, turning the head, opening the mouth, and gentle rooting. This is the ideal time to feed.
✨ Mid cues involve squirming, hand-to-mouth movements, increased rooting, and vocalizing.
✨ Late cues include crying, face reddening, full-body tension, arching, and flailing arms or legs.
Attempting to latch a baby who is already crying often requires soothing first — delaying feeding even further. Catching early cues allows feeds to begin before baby becomes overwhelmed.
Learning to recognize these signals reduces feeding stress, supports better milk transfer, and builds parental confidence. Preparation — especially during pregnancy — helps families enter postpartum feeling empowered rather than reactive.
When parents know what to look for, everything changes. Join our Newborn Care Class today to learn HOW to understand your baby and meet their needs.