By Yusuf Boluwatife
Babies are very mild and innocent creatures. They need special attention, as they can’t speak, move or do practically anything without the help of a grownup.
In this piece, BlackBox Nigeria highlights five common body language signs made by babies and their meanings.
Twisting of legs
In their early stages of growth, babies are faced with mild bodily reactions such as stomach upset, mostly indicated by twisting of legs and running temperature. These reactions, however, could be easily controlled with appropriate medications. It’s important to note that frequent, continuous leg twisting by babies signifies stomach upset.
Unnecessary clinginess
When babies begin to show signs such as turning away from people they are used to, rejecting their favourite snack or even food, wanting to be in one position and being extraordinarily clingy, it could be a sign of an intending illness, most likely teething.
Frequent touching of the hair while crying
When babies do this, it often means they are hungry. Babies are known for the habit of making gestures including touching or even dragging their hair while being breastfed.
Stamping of feet, touching of butt
This, commonly, is a sign of a wet diaper. Babies in the early stages of walking prefer no disturbance, and a wet diaper is a threat to this, which is why they stamp their feet or touch their butts frequently.
Stopping to groan while playing or frequent squatting
In some children, this implies the need to empty their bowel. However, when they find it a bit discomforting to do so, they groan and even squat at times.
All in all, these signs should be recognized and understood by nursing mothers.
