Your Baby's Hunger Cues & Formula Feeding

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Your Baby's Hunger Cues & Formula Feeding

When your baby is hungry, they will show signs of nuzzling, hand-sucking, or mouthing (opening their mouth and turning their head).

Hunger cues for formula feeding

Hunger cues for formula feeding: Video transcript

 

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When your baby is hungry, they will show signs of nuzzling, hand-sucking, or mouthing (opening their mouth and turning their head). These signs can happen when their eyes are closed or open.

These early signs are useful when you and baby are learning to feed.  Try to feed your baby as often as they show signs they are hungry.

Crying may be the last sign your baby is hungry. Try to feed your baby before they start crying. It’s easier to feed when they are not upset and crying.

Keeping your baby close to you, including sleeping in the same room at night (but never in your bed), will make sure you do not miss the signs your baby is hungry.  It will also help your baby to feel safe and secure and help you bond with each other.

Check KidsHealth's formula feeding section

Check KidsHealth's infant nutrition section

This page last reviewed 19 December 2022.

Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 any time of the day or night for free health advice when you need it