Hunger Cues (Newborns and Young Infants)
Babies show they’re hungry before they cry. Crying is usually a late sign of hunger. Responding early can help feeding go more smoothly. Watch for these early signs:
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Rooting (turning head with an open mouth)
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Sucking on hands or fingers
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Smacking lips or making sucking sounds
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Fussiness or restlessness.
Birth to 4 Months
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Only breast milk or formula is needed—no solids yet.
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Newborns eat every 2–4 hours and show hunger cues like rooting or sucking on hands.
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Don’t give juice, cereal, or other foods yet.
4 to 6 Months
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Some babies may be ready for solid foods (like iron-fortified baby cereal), but check with your doctor first.
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Look for signs like good head control, interest in food, and ability to sit with support.
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Start one food at a time and wait 3–5 days before trying another to watch for allergies.
6 to 8 Months
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Introduce pureed fruits, veggies, and meats.
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Continue breast milk or formula.
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Offer a variety of textures as baby grows.
8 to 10 Months
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Babies can try soft finger foods (like small pieces of banana or well-cooked pasta).
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They may start using a cup and feeding themselves with fingers.
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Avoid choking hazards like popcorn, whole grapes, and nuts.
10 to 12 Months
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Encourage self-feeding with safe table foods.
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By 12 months, babies can eat many of the same foods as the family (cut into tiny pieces).
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They should still get breast milk or formula—about 16–24 oz per day.
Tips for Feeding
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Always supervise your baby while eating.
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Be patient and let your baby set the pace.
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Keep feeding times calm and positive.
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Avoid honey before age 1 to prevent botulism.
Source: Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Feeding Your Baby: The First Year. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9693-feeding-your-baby-the-first-year