What is a common sign that a newborn is ready to feed?

A common sign that a newborn is ready to feed is showing signs of hunger. Newborns typically exhibit various behaviors indicating they are ready to eat, such as sucking on their fists, turning their head toward the breast or bottle (the rooting reflex), becoming more alert, or making smacking noises with their lips. These signs reflect the baby’s natural instinct to seek nourishment and are important cues for caregivers to recognize, ensuring that feeding occurs at the appropriate times to meet the infant’s nutritional needs.

Other behaviors listed, such as sleeping soundly or staying calm and quiet, do not indicate readiness to feed. In fact, a sleeping baby may not be ready for feeding until they wake up and show feeding cues. Turning away from the breast typically signifies disinterest or a desire to stop feeding rather than readiness to eat. Recognizing hunger cues allows caregivers to respond promptly, fostering a healthy feeding relationship between the newborn and caregiver.