Feeding Schedules for Babies by Age

Understanding Your Baby’s Feeding Needs

Every baby is unique, but establishing a feeding schedule can bring comfort, routine, and joyful bonding moments for both parents and little ones. Whether you’re welcoming a newborn or nurturing a growing toddler, knowing what to expect at each stage helps ensure your child is happy, healthy, and well-nourished.

Feeding Schedules by Age

Newborns (0-3 Months)

• Frequency: Every 2-3 hours (8-12 feedings in 24 hours)
• Amount per feeding: 1-3 ounces of breast milk or formula per feeding
• Signs of hunger: Rooting, sucking motions, fussiness, fingers to mouth

At this delicate stage, babies have tiny tummies and need to eat frequently. Gentle snuggles and skin-to-skin time can help foster feeding cues and create cozy moments.

Infants (4-6 Months)

• Frequency: Every 3-4 hours (6-8 feedings per day)
• Amount per feeding: 4-6 ounces of breast milk or formula
• Signs of readiness for solids: Good head control, showing interest in food, diminished tongue-thrust reflex

Around 6 months, your little one may be ready to try their first gentle bites of solids. Embrace the mess and capture those adorable “first tastes” — it’s all part of the magic!

Older Babies (6-12 Months)

• Milk feedings: Every 4 hours (4-6 feedings per day, 6-8 ounces per feeding)
• Solid food meals: 2-3 times per day (soft fruits, pureed veggies, iron-rich cereals)
• Signs of fullness: Turning away, refusing bottle, closing mouth, playful distractions

Enjoy exploring new flavors together, and follow your baby’s cues. This stage is perfect for introducing mealtime routines, baby-safe utensils, and family table traditions.

Toddlers (12 Months and Beyond)

• Milk: 16-24 ounces daily (whole milk, breast milk, or fortified alternatives)
• Meals: 3 meals + 2 healthy snacks each day
• Encouragement: Variety, self-feeding, and fun shapes foster adventurous eaters

Toddlers thrive with routine but love independence. Involve them in mealtime choices and make every bite a joyful experience!

Gentle Tips & Joyful Encouragement

• Trust your baby’s hunger and fullness cues
• Nourish comfort with cuddles and calm surroundings
• Introduce new foods with patience—sometimes it takes a few tries!
• Celebrate every milestone, big and small, on your feeding journey

Find More Feeding & Growing Moments

Every stage brings something new to cherish. Discover cozy bib and burp cloths for feeding time, baby essentials, and sweet newborn sets to make every memory a little softer.

Have a feeding tip or adorable mealtime photo? Share your joyful moments with #BabyJoyBeginnings and join our caring community of parents and caregivers.

Joyful Beginnings, Endless Smiles!