The Language of Babies: What Your Baby is Trying To Tell You

April 5, 2023 Infant

Your baby has been talking to you since they were born. Well, not exactly with words, but with the language of babies: gurgles, babbles, cries, moans, arches, waves, grimaces and more. Understanding this special language is the key to helping meet your baby’s everyday needs, from “Feed me, I’m hungry!” to “Change me, I’ve got a poopy diaper!”

Unfortunately, sometimes parents get confused about what their baby is trying to tell them and may mistake discomfort or tiredness as hunger. In a 2010 Academic Pediatrics study, 72% of mothers surveyed believed that a crying baby meant a hungry baby.

Let’s face it, babies cry. A lot. Your baby isn’t always hungry when they cry.

Here’s what they may actually be trying to tell you:

I’m tired

The doctor’s appointment, the grocery store and the friendly visitors have worn me out. I just want to take my nap, because all this activity is tiring.

I’m HUNGRY

I’m growing and sometimes that makes me hungrier. I love it when you let me eat every two to three hours and listen to me when I’m ready to eat and when I am done.

I’m Too hot

The weather is warming up and you’ve got me dressed like we’re in the middle of winter! Please take that extra blanket off of me.

I’m Too COLD

I’m too cold. I kicked off my blankets and now I am cold. Will you please cover me up?

My diaper is dirty (or wet)

I pee or poop frequently during the day, so I need a diaper change every few hours. When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I want is a clean diaper!

I’m BORED

I’ve been staring at the ceiling all morning {or in the same position, in the same baby carrier, looking out the same window} and I need a change of scenery.

I’m Gassy

That funny face, arching back and drawn up knees mean that I’m having a hard time digesting my food. It’s not a bad thing, but it might mean the food I ate is a little harder for my system to digest.

I need a break

The truth is, the noise, lights, and general chaos gets to be overwhelming and I need a moment (or two) of quiet.

Sometimes figuring out what your baby is trying to tell you is hard. You’re busy, distracted, or in the middle of doing something important. But your baby has a language all their own, and it’s important to understand it. This way, you’ll be able to meet their needs without feeding them too much or too little, send the message that they’re important to you, and grab those chances to connect and build a solid attachment with them.