Baby’s states of consciousness

This occurs when babies are completely relaxed. 

During this state babies are typically very unresponsive, with their eyes closed, relaxed facial expressions and regular, rhythmic breathing.

Contrasting with Deep Sleep, in State 2 babies often have irregular breathing, make lots of facial expressions, be more physically active – arms and legs in particular, make some sounds such as cries or gurgles. 

It is likely they will have their eyes closed but experience rapid eye movement, meaning their eyelids may flutter a lot. Sudden noises can startle them awake.

From this state they will cycle back into deep sleep or into waking up.

Babies are not quite asleep nor awake. In this state babies are likely to have irregular breathing, their eyes may be open or closed with relaxed facial expressions, more gentle movements as opposed to the jerkier ones in the Light Sleep state. 

This awake state can be characterized by regular breathing, bright eyes and a fixed gaze. Babies may focus on their parents and mimic them, they often engage with their environments but have minimal body activity as they are relaxed. They might also make small noises

As baby’s wake up they are likely to start moving and vocalizing more, with open eyes and an active face and body they are sensitive to stimuli but less engaged. 

They can easily become over-stimulated and move into fussiness.

Babies cry when they need help with something, it is their way of getting your attention and they need you to respond to them. 

Common cues are irregular breathing, interrupted by cries appearing overly stimulated/disorganised and their eyes may be open or shut. 

Babies cry for a number of reasons, including: being thirsty or hungry, not feeling well, being uncomfortable or tired, to name a few.