Last Updated on November 9, 2020
Hunger cry: if your baby starts crying slowly that moments after escalates to a hysterical one, that’s his hunger cue. The initial moments of the cry are very similar to the calling cry, but it will become louder and won’t stop until you feed your baby. They will also start rolling their heads in an attempt to reach a breastfeeding position. You can tell your baby is still hungry after breastfeeding if they keep fussing about it.
Physiological cry: when babies are uncomfortable due to gas, urine, or poop, they will quickly let you know with a “whining” and squeaking cry. It’s time to change their diaper or give them a gentle massage to help get the gas out. Lastly, if your baby yawns in between his crying, he most certainly needs to sleep. This is often followed by a rub of eyes and ears. These are the most common types of cries, but of course, your experience with your baby may vary.
The other two ways babies use to communicate are related to sound and movement.
2. Noises made
These are more difficult to figure. But according to some researchers, after the first four months of life, babies can produce different sounds depending on their needs. That’s because their body response makes their mouth open in different ways. For example, when they are hungry, they will push their tongue against to top of their mouth in a kind of “sucking reflex.” When they have gases, babies will strain their tummy and exhale to alleviate the pain.
3. Movements
Babies also express themselves through movement. We are about to explore some of the meanings behind some frequent movements that are crucial to understanding your baby’s body language.
Arching their backs: during the first two months, babies arch their back very often as a response to pain or colic. If it happens when they’re eating, it could mean that they are already full. After two months of age, arching their back is usually an indication that they are tired.
Rotating the head: sometimes, right before falling asleep, babies start rotating their heads. That’s because it is a calming movement that helps them relax. If they do it when around unknown people, you can try to help them by gently rubbing their back. Clenching the fists: this is a great indicator of how hungry the baby is. A relaxed hand is a sign that the baby is full, while a strong clenched fist means that the hunger cry might be coming soon. If the eating hour is arriving and you see your baby clenching his fists, you can avoid the crying by immediately feeding them.
