What behavior signifies hunger in infants aged 8-10 months?

Infants between the ages of 8-10 months typically exhibit behaviors that indicate their hunger. One of the most notable signs is showing excitement when food is presented. This excitement can manifest as reaching for the food, opening their mouth in anticipation, or vocalizing in a way that demonstrates eagerness to eat. These behavioral cues are critical because they reflect the infant’s growing awareness of hunger and the enjoyment of food, which can influence their eating habits as they develop.

In this age range, infants are becoming more social and interactive, demonstrating preferences and reactions to various stimuli, including food. Recognizing this excitement is helpful for caregivers in understanding when an infant is ready to eat and ensuring that feeding times are positive experiences. This behavior indicates not just a physical need for nourishment but also a developmental milestone in the infant's cognitive and sensory engagement with their environment.

The other options do not accurately represent typical hunger cues for infants at this stage. Looking away from food or stopping play might indicate disinterest rather than hunger, whereas pushing the plate away could suggest fullness or refusal, signaling that the infant does not want to eat at that moment. Hence, the excitement in response to food is a more reliable indicator of hunger.