Infant feeding cues

Feeding cues are how your baby shows you that they are hungry and would like to be fed. These cues are also known as hunger signals. These signals will get stronger and louder as your baby becomes more hungry. Your baby will let you know when they are hungry, and it’s not just by crying.

Source of pictures State of Queensland 2025

Calming your baby

Skin to skin contact – can happen anytime especially when your baby needs comforting or calming. Keeping baby close

• will help your baby feel safe and secure.
• is good for your baby’s brain development.
• helps you recognise cues (signals) your baby makes when hungry and or just wants a cuddle.

Skin-to-skin means holding your baby whilst they are naked or wearing just a nappy, so that their skin is in contact with the bare skin of your chest and tummy. Usually the mother does this, although other parents and caregivers can do it too.

Responsive feeding – feeding baby when they show signs of hunger

• There are several signals that your baby shows to indicate hunger. Crying is the last of these signals.
• Breastfed babies cannot be overfed. You can offer a breastfeed to soothe your baby, it’s also a time when you can relax together.
• Bottle fed babies should be held close during feeds, look into their eyes while gently talking to baby. Let your baby pace the feed, they don’t have to complete it. Minimise the number of individuals who offer feeds to your baby especially in the early days, this will help your baby feel safe and secure.

REMEMBER – babies cry, you can cope

• Infant crying is normal
• Comforting methods can help
• It is OK to walk away
• Never, ever shake a baby