Babies are capable of a range of emotions but have not yet learned how to master or communicate them properly. We wish we could make each and every parent a “baby whisperer,” but until that’s possible, here are some tips that will help you connect with your little one.

Look at their faces.

Babies' emotions and behaviours generally lack nuance and are as plain as the cute little nose on their faces. You won’t see a Mona Lisa smile from an infant.

Check out how they’re moving.

Body language is also a great communication tool. A person may tense up when scared or reach for you when upset. Don’t ignore these clear signals.

Analyse their cries.

An experienced parent will often learn to understand what their baby is crying about by ear. If you’re not there yet, take your time. Your child is connecting with you every moment they’re awake, and you’ll gain that recognition soon enough.

Respond with empathy.

When you recognise that your infant is experiencing an emotion, it is important to respond with empathy. This means acknowledging their feelings and providing comfort and support. For example, if your infant is crying because they are hungry, responding with empathy might mean offering them a feed to provide nourishment and comfort.

Avoid minimising emotions.

Don’t dismiss your children as annoying or insignificant. Even though infants may not have the same level of emotional understanding as adults, their emotions are still valid and important. Responding with empathy and understanding can help your infant develop a sense of trust and security.

Consult a professional.

If you are having difficulty recognising or understanding your infant's emotions and it feels like your baby is crying all the time, it may be helpful to consult a professional. A GP, health visitor, or paediatrician can check that all is well with your baby and can offer guidance and support to help you better understand and respond to your infant's emotions.

THow do I understand and recognise emotions in my baby? Unii’s Baby Development Journey has the answers.

Look at their faces.

Babies' emotions and behaviours generally lack nuance and are as plain as the cute little nose on their faces. You won’t see a Mona Lisa smile from an infant.

Check out how they’re moving.

Body language is also a great communication tool. A person may tense up when scared or reach for you when upset. Don’t ignore these clear signals.

Analyse their cries.

Respond with empathy.

Avoid minimising emotions.

Consult a professional.

How do I identify and understand my baby’s emotions?