Baby Feeding Schedule

When the baby is born, the parents are overjoyed at the arrival of their loved one. At the same time, they are worried about the baby feeding schedule. The most important feeds in the baby's life are the first few feeds. It is from these feeds that the baby derives a lot of nutrition. As far as possible, it is best to breastfeed the baby for the first 6 months. Baby formula can be given to the baby, if breastfeeding is not possible. The feeding pattern changes, over a period of time. You will have to understand the cues given by the baby as well as your own instincts to feed the baby.

Having a feeding schedule will be of help in determining, what to feed the baby. Before we actually see the template, it is important to note, that it has rough guidelines. There are 'n' number of factors, which will influence the quantity of food eaten by your baby. In some cases, the baby may eat less and in others, the baby may eat more. At the same time, if the baby is going through a growth spurt, then he will eat more as compared to the regular quantity. This is also the time, when they will sleep more. Once the spurt is done with, they will come back to their regular schedule.

Baby Feeding Chart

For a Baby Under 4 Months
When the baby is under 4 months old, breastfeeding the baby is very important, for there are many advantages of breastfeeding. If, for whatever reason, it is not possible, then formula milk can be given to the child. The baby derives all the necessary nutrition from the milk. One of the breastfeeding tips for the mother is that, she should relax. The baby is aware of its needs and will take as much as is required. As far as possible, it is best to feed the baby, when he is hungry. Remember that, as an infant, in very rare cases does the child overeat or under eat. Therefore, it is important for you to understand the small hints given to you by your baby. This is one of the breastfeeding tips and tricks, which you will never want to forget.

For 4 to 6 Months Baby
The baby is now ready to have some semi-solid and solid food, apart from breast milk. Semi solid iron fortified rice or cereals can be given to the baby initially. For 5 months to 6 months include cereals like oats and barley. When you are introducing other foods to the baby, begin with 1 teaspoon of dry rice cereal. It should be mixed either with breast milk or formula milk. Gradually, you can thicken the feed and increase the quantity of dry cereal and give the baby about 1 tablespoon of dry cereal. The 6 months old baby will be fed cereals about two times a day.

For 6 to 8 Months Baby
The baby feeding chart will see a slight change now. Along with the diet prescribed for a 4 to 6 months old, pureed fruits and vegetables will be added to the diet now. It is best not to strain the fruits and let the baby have the fiber as well. You can include fruits like banana, pears, applesauce, peaches, etc., to the diet. It is best to cook and then puree the vegetables. Carrots, sweet potato, etc., can be given to the baby. It is important, that you introduce only one food item at a time. Between introducing two foods, ensure that there is a gap of at least 5 days. Cereals can be given for 2 to 3 feedings. Start off with 1 teaspoon of fruit puree and then eventually increase it to ¼ to ½ cup of fruit spread over 2 to 3 feedings. Same is the case with vegetables as well. Therefore, an 8 months baby will be fed of milk, pureed fruits and vegetables along with cereals.

For 8 to 10 Months Baby
There is a lot of change, which will come about in your child's diet. Soft cottage cheese, yogurt, pasteurized cheese can be introduced to the child now. Finger foods like bagels, well cooked pasta, teething crackers, etc., can be given to the child. Egg, well cooked poultry, boneless fish also can be introduced albeit in small quantities. Beans with soft skin, which are well cooked, can also be given to the child. The child can be given pureed vegetables and fruits like in the previous months. Different fruits, but non citrus, can be added to the diet. The quantities in which the different foods can be given are as follows:

• ¼ cup yogurt or ½ oz cheese
• ¼ - ½ cup iron fortified cereals
• ¼ - ½ cup mashed fruits
• ¼ - ½ cup cooked and mashed vegetables
• ¼ cup protein foods
• 3 - 4 oz non citrus juices

For 10 to 12 Months Baby
The diet does not undergo a lot of change now. The form in which the food is given changes. In place of mashed or pureed fruits, cubes or strips of fruits can be given to the child. Same is the case with the vegetables as well. Soft cooked and bite size pieces of vegetables can also be given to the child. There are a number of good baby finger foods, which can be given to the child. Pasta combined with cheese, soft cooked vegetables, etc., can be given to the child. Protein in the form of egg, poultry, boneless fish, etc. can also be given. Beans can also be included for protein content in them.

The baby feeding schedule for each baby is different. You will have to observe your child to know the schedule it has. A lot of women ask when to stop breastfeeding. Ideally the baby should be breastfed at least for a year. However, depending on the circumstances, you can talk to the pediatrician and decide. At the same time, before you introduce new foods or make changes to the schedule, it is best to talk to the baby's pediatrician.