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Understanding Feeding Cues

Promoting Infant-led feeding 

Responsive (infant-led) feeding refers to feeding practices that encourage the child to

eat on their own and in response to their physiological (bodily) needs. This feeding practice encourages self -control and supports cognitive, emotional, and social development. 

(Heller & Mobley, 2019)

The following information is adopted from the Methodist Women's Center, San Antonio, Texas

Respect your baby and respond to their cues appropriately to ensure a positive feeding experience and to avoid added stress for both you and your baby. Do NOT force feed. If you are concerned your baby is not getting adequate intake, contact your lactation consultant or pediatrician. 

"I'm hungry"

  • hands to mouth 

  • sucking on fist

  • smacking lips 

  • making sucking sounds

  • babbling

  • rooting 

  • active, alert, and restless

"I'm full"

  • closing lips

  • turning head away from nipple

  • sleepiness

  • decreased interest in feeding 

  • slowed suck-swallow pattern

  • extending fingers, arms, and legs 

  • milk spilling from mouth

  • fussiness

Feeding Tips

During the first few months of life, it is not uncommon for your infant to require additional help to stay awake during feedings:

  • undress and unswaddle 

  • wipe forehead or legs/feet with a damp cloth 

  • play with feet and/or hands 

  • talk or sing to them

Adopted from the Methodist Women's Center, San Antonio, Texas

Additional Resource:

YouTube Video: Responsive Feeding Explained

The information contained in this website should not be used as a substitute for the medical care or advice from your pediatrician. Your pediatrician may have specific recommendations based on your child's individual circumstances. 

References

Heller, R., & Mobley, A. (2019). Instruments assessing parental responsive feeding in children ages birth to 5 years. Appetite, 138, 23-51. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2019.03.006

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Reece, A. (2018). Key questions on infant feeding problems. Pulse, 30-32. Retrieved from pulse-learning.co.uk_keyquestionsoninfantfeedingproblems.org

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Shloim, N., Vereijken, C., Blundell, P., & Hetherington, M. (2017). Looking for cues- infant communication of hunger and satiation during milk feeding. Appetite, 108, 72-82. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.appet.2016.09.020

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