You don’t have to be a new mom to know a baby in your life! Whether you’re a parent yourself, lucky enough to be a grandparent, or you're the faithful (and very necessary) family friend, everyone could use a little refresher on baby language.
And it’s more complex than you might have imagined! I’ve met a few babies in my time — even looked after a few of them for some babysitting money — but I never knew about all the different ways little ones innately know how to communicate to us without words.
Before we really get into this topic, however, I’d recommend that you check out our guide on how to calm a baby using foot reflexology. It’s pretty wild what you can do with only a few moves!
Please note that while many of these tips are backed up by science, they are still merely suggestions. If you suspect your baby may be sick or in need of medical assistance, I strongly urge you to consult your physician.
Keep scrolling for a look at what baby body language reveals, and let us know what you think in the comments!
What They’re Doing: Kicking Feet
We’ve all seen it happen. You ease your darling bundle of joy down on their blanket, and they promptly start to wiggle and kick their feet. Is this a normal thing for babies to do? Are they the next Madonna in the making?
It’s super-cute to see, but what does it really mean?
What It Means: "I’m Having Fun!"
Keep doing whatever it is that’s making them so happy! Whether you’ve got the family pup nearby or you’re reading a bedtime story, it’s definitely working.
"Along with any body language, experts say to always watch your baby's face: that'll help you sort out what [they’re] thinking," recommends Parenting.
What They’re Doing: Ear Tugging
A bit of pain might go a long way to effectively convey an important message! If your baby grabs onto your ear and starts to rub, it may be a strong indicator of something being amiss.
Unless, of course, you're wearing very flashy earrings. Better take those out while you're holding the little tyke!
What It Means: "Comfort Me, Please!"
"In an effort to comfort themselves, whether preparing for sleep or disengaging from a particular situation — babies will rub those ears as a way to calm their emotions," says Psychology Today.
Like tugging on a bell, your baby is sounding the alarm! But not to worry — you now have the tools to respond accordingly.
What They’re Doing: Flailing Arms
Many people have reported their baby flailing their arms, particularly when they’re about to be put down to sleep. Is this in protest of the dreaded bedtime, or is there something far more serious at play?
This move actually has a scientific name: the Moro reflex, and it’s more common than you might think!
What It Means: "Whoa, I’m Off Balance!"
"This reflex, which usually disappears after 3 or 4 months, is often a response to a sudden loss of support, often when an infant feels like he's falling," says Dr. Nelson for Parents.
By swaddling your baby before a nap, you can help give them much-needed equilibrium (and also, set them up for the perfect photo, in my opinion).
What They’re Doing: Turning Away
Is your baby giving you the "talk to the hand" treatment? Don’t worry! They aren’t ignoring you on purpose — unless you told a really awful dad joke, in which case, I don't blame them.
If your bundle of joy isn't immediately responsive when you try engaging them, there's one major thing that might be at play here.
What It Means: "OK, I’ve Had Enough!"
"Respect your baby’s need for a break," recommends Canadian Family. "See if you can get [them] down for a nap or — at the very least — put away that too-cool educational toy and ease into a quieter, more soothing activity."
It’ll certainly give you and your baby a bit of time to relax!
What They’re Doing: Twirling Your Hair
Do you like it when people play with your hair? That's actually pretty universal! Many people enjoy the feel of a particular comb, or perhaps when someone braids your hair for you.
When your baby reaches for those luscious locks, they have a special message in store.
What It Means: "This Is Comforting. Thanks!"
Provided your baby isn’t yanking on your hair, which would be bad, CNN reports that this is a normal and even encouraging sign.
"Let [them] twirl. It's one of those self-soothing behaviors that might look a little odd to outsiders, but it's not one you need to deter."
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