Infants under 6 months of age

For babies under 6 months of age, the most common causes of tongue protrusion are natural reflexes, hunger and genetic differences.

The tongue protrusion reflex occurs in response to something touching the lip and makes it easier for young children to eat. Spontaneous tongue protrusion usually persists until the child is four to six months old. The child should not be given solid foods until this reflex subsides.

Newborns often stick out their tongue when they are hungry. This can also mean that the baby is looking for food. In this situation, he or she may turn his or her head in one direction, open his or her mouth and then do the same while looking the other way.

Genetic differences are the least likely cause of children's protruding tongue. In most cases, tongue protrusion is not a sign of genetic differences in the child.

Infants over 6 months of age

Babies reaching 6 months of age are developing some communication skills. This means that they can deliberately stick out their tongue, among other things to check the other person's reaction.

If an adult laughs in response to a baby sticking out their tongue, they may do so more often. However, some infants may continue to stick out their tongue even when the adult expresses disapproval because they are curious about the other person's behaviour.

If the child is sticking out his or her tongue, there is usually no cause for concern. However, there are situations where it is worth considering a visit to the paediatrician, such as when an infant sticks out his or her tongue for no apparent reason and shows other developmental differences.

A baby who consistently shows signs of hunger immediately after feeding may not be getting enough breast milk or formula milk. This may also be related to inadequate absorption of nutrients from food.

In the first year of a baby's life, when visits to the paediatrician take place regularly, it is worth discussing any concerns during these visits.