How can you tell when your baby is…

Overwhelmed

Being a tiny little person in a big world can be daunting. Everything is something new to discover and explore. Sometimes babies may have too many new things to contend with and be over-stimulated. Baby will most likely not be able to focus on one thing or one person, they’ll especially turn away from engaging with people. And if they’re not calmed, crying will commence.

Happy

Is there anything more uplifting than a happy, content little baby? This one is easily identified — no grumpy, angry resting faces here. Happy babies don’t even have to smile when content, but their face is relaxed, free from frowns, often accompanied by the sweetest coo or gurgling noises. A happy baby focuses on whatever is near to her — often her feet — and is perfectly amused all by herself.

Unsure

Even before they can make any kind of meaningful sounds, when a baby is unsure of something, they will let you know. This happens when they come across something new and strange and don’t know how they should react. For example, they come across a new toy or maybe even a little dog. They will look to the parent for guidance on what to do next. Just like adult humans in question-mode, eyebrows may be raised as they look for an ‘ok to continue’ , or a ‘stop right there’ instruction from the parent.

Curious

A baby can be curious about anything — from the sound of a dishwasher to their own little hands. When it comes to objects, they explore them by putting them in their mouths. They will be attentive and focused.

Bored

“Infants are human beings — they express themselves in the same way non-verbally as adults or children. A bored infant may shake their head from side to side or look away,” says Vivien Sabel.

Scared

This one is easy to identify — if it’s a sudden fright, they could burst into spontaneous crying, limbs spread out for a split second, head turning away from the offending visitor. If it’s a slow burner — such as the first time they come across a beard — a long stare will swiftly be followed by a slowly downturned little mouth, again followed by waterworks. Or if startled, “an infant will have wide eyes and raised eyebrows,” adds Vivien.