Infant cues

The term 'infant cues' refers to the array of behaviours infants use to communicate. An understanding of these cues helps us to determine (for example) when the infant is ready for interaction, tired, hungry, agitated or overwhelmed. Most parents intuitively respond to these cues and therefore meet the needs of their infant. This is important in developing the infant’s trust and attachment.

Infants communicate stress not only through crying but in a number of often more subtle ways. The following table describes some of the behaviours and observations which may indicate disruption of stability or state in the infant and also those which indicate stability. These are organised by physiological, motor and behavioural/state cues. In isolation, they may not be significant but when observed as a cluster or repeatedly in response to a particular stimulus; infant stress should be considered.