How can I tell if my baby is hungry?

Every baby is a little different, but once you get to know your baby, you’ll be able to tell when he’s hungry. Early signs of hunger are:

• Sucking motions and sounds
• Bringing hands to mouth
• Sticking out tongue and licking lips
• Moving his head as if searching for your breast
• Stretching and curling of his arms and legs
• Opening of his mouth and moving his head side-to-side as if searching for something (this is called rooting)
• Soft cooing or sighing sounds

Always offer your breast when you see these early signs that your baby is hungry. Crying is a late sign of hunger. If possible, calm your baby before feeding.

Keep growth spurts in mind: these normally occur at different intervals. Your baby may take more breast milk during these periods. They can last from 48 hours up to a week. Growth spurts are not an indication to introduce solids to your baby’s diet.

How will I know when my baby is full? 

Don't force your baby to finish the feed. Your baby is learning to recognize feelings of hunger and being full and is learning to eat accordingly. 

Look for these signs of fullness: 

• Turning away from the breast or nipple
• Swallowing less 
• Looking sleepy or relaxed 
• Falling asleep 
• Stretching out arms and legs during feeding 

Remember that your baby may be hungry at one meal and less hungry at another. 

Following your baby's feeding cues will: 

• Help breastfeeding go well 
• Help you get to know your baby
• Allow your baby to build trust, and allow mom to gain confidence
• Build a positive feeding relationship which supports child growth