Tuning into your baby's hunger and fullness cues is key to nurturing a healthy relationship with food. Babies communicate their needs in various ways, and recognizing these signals ensures they get the right amount of nutrition. Here's how to identify when your baby might be hungry or full:

When your baby is hungry, they might open their mouth when offered food, show excitement at the sight of food, or use hand motions and sounds to express their desire for more.

On the flip side, when your baby is full, they might push food away, close their mouth when food is offered, or turn their head away from food.

Follow your baby’s lead and let them guide you on how much they want to eat. It’s normal for their appetite to vary from one meal to the next. If they don’t finish their meal, that’s perfectly fine—you can save the remaining food for later.

If you notice a consistent lack of appetite or have any concerns about your baby’s eating habits, trust your instincts and consult with your pediatrician for guidance.

By paying close attention to these cues, you can support your baby’s nutritional needs while respecting their natural appetite, laying the groundwork for healthy eating habits as they grow.