What to remember to tell parents

Remember that all babies have different temperaments so may communicate hunger and fullness in different ways. Assure caregivers that there are no set rules and they should take time to get to know when their baby does or does not want feeding. Some general signs you can tell parents or caregivers to look out for include:

Signs baby is hungry

• Sucks on fists
• Smiles and gazes at caregiver
• Opens mouth while feeding
• Cries or fusses
• Wakes or tosses

Signs baby is full

• Is distracted
• Turns head away
• Spits out the nipple or falls asleep
• Slows or stops suckling
• Seals lips