Other than being very adorable, there are a range of reasons why your baby might be sticking their tongue out. Sometimes, it might be for no reason at all apart from a natural baby reflex like the moro reflex, but as a parent it's important to be aware of what might be causing it.
1. They're hungry or full
Crying can often indicate hunger, but most of the time, the reason for crying is in fact a very late sign that baby is hungry. Sticking the tongue out may be one of your baby's hunger cues. Sticking the tongue out may also mean they are full too and are done feeding.
2. Baby reflex
Baby's have a range of reflexes that they're born with. One of them is the tongue thrust action as this helps them to feed and latching onto your boob or bottle teet, whether they're a breast fed or bottle fed baby. Most baby's tend to grow out of this reflex action by the six month mark.
3. Mouth breathing
Typically, babies tend to breath through their nose unless they have a blocked nose, a common cold or congestion. Breathing through the mouth instead of nose can cause the tongue to stick out.
If you're concerned about your baby or they are wheezing, having difficulty breathing and flared nostrils, it's a good idea to visit your doctor.
4. They aren't ready for solid foods
Around the six month mark, you can try and wean your baby onto solid foods for the first time. While some baby's take to solids well, it may take other baby's a bit longer. If you find they are persistently using their tongue to push food out of their mouth when eating, then it might be worth stopping with the solid foods and trying again in a week or so. If you have any concerns about this, it's worth speaking to your doctor.
5. Gas
Digestive health can also have an impact on your baby's tongue action, and if they're struggling with trapped wind or after they pass gas, you may notice their tongue make an appearance.
6. They're playing
From an early age, baby's can learn how to mimic your face. So if you find your baby is sticking out their tongue in response to you doing the same, then it might be their way of mimicking your facial expression.
7. They have a small mouth
This condition is known as micrognathia, or a small jaw. This can be caused by genetic problems or different conditions. If you're concerned, this is something you should discuss with your doctor.
8. Low muscle tone
Remember, the tongue is a muscle, and some baby's can have decreased muscle tone in the tongue. This can also be caused by medical conditions and your doctor should be able to pick this up.
9. They have a big tongue
This condition is known as macroglossia and there can be a variety of causes for this. It might be genetics or issues with muscle development. It's also a common symptom of Down Syndrome too, and you might find this causes issue when feeding too when it comes to latching on.
If you suspect your baby might be struggling with an enlarged tongue, it's important to discuss this with your doctor.
10. Swollen mass or growth in mouth
If they have swollen glands or an infection in the mouth which is causing swelling, then it could be causing their tongue to poke out.