Translating Newborn
Written By Sonia Shah
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Decoding Babyspeak
- Yawning: I'm a little overstimulated. I need some time out. Or I'm just tired.
- Fist lightly closed, not tightly clenched: I'm so happy right now.
- Fingers splayed wide, bluish tinge around the mouth, tension in the legs: I'm losing it.
- Fingers straight, tips together, eyes open, toes relaxed: I'm fascinated.
- Limp, flaccid limbs, color changes: I'm exhausted.
- Springy limbs, even color, open-eyed alertness, arms and legs relaxed, spit-up-free bib: I'm ready to play.
- Jerky movements: I need to be swaddled, cuddled, contained.
- Color changes, mottling: I'm feeling a little rattled. That was too abrupt for me.
- Spitting up: Whatever you're doing right now is stressing my system. Please stop.
- Slight furrowing of the brow: I'm starting to lose it.
- Shaking head side to side (rooting), increased activity, fussing, even crying: Please feed me.
- Looking off into the distance (assuming there's nothing cool to see within 12 inches) after some stimulating event: This is too much. I need to disengage.
- Averting gaze from a peering face: This is too much for me at this moment. I would like to take a break. I'll be back when I'm ready. Don't be offended.
- Whimper: I'm finding a way to settle myself — please let me be. If I can't manage it on my own, I may need you to help me or I'll become very upset.
- Low cries: I might like my hand to suck on. Perhaps I need your help now before I lose it altogether.
- Full-blown howl: Help!
More Information
If you're interested in finding a clinician trained in the NBO, contact the Brazelton Institute in Boston at 857-218-4354 or www.brazelton-institute.com.
About the Author
Sonia Shah writes about science and politics. Her latest book, The Body Hunters, is out in paperback.
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