What is a hunger cue for infants aged 0-4 months?

Crying or fussing is a key hunger cue for infants aged 0-4 months. At this early stage of development, infants communicate their needs primarily through crying. When a baby is hungry, they may display signs of distress or discomfort, which manifests as cranking or fussing. This is their way of expressing that they desire food or nourishment, as they are not yet able to use other methods of communication such as gestures or facial expressions.

Other potential options do not directly indicate hunger. Shedding tears can occur for various reasons such as discomfort, tiredness, or frustration, which do not specifically signal hunger. Turning away from food might indicate fullness or disinterest rather than hunger. Smiling at a caregiver is typically a sign of social engagement and contentment rather than a cue for hunger. Therefore, the crying or fussing of an infant is the most reliable indicator of their need for feeding during this developmental phase.