Feeding schedule for a newborn will normally be prescribed by the doctor post delivery. As a baby grows her food requirements will keep changing. It is always best to consult a doctor before starting or introducing new foods for a baby.

The initial months immediately after the birth of a baby can be really confusing for a new mom. Most new moms will be spending most of their time in feeding the newborn, putting the baby to sleep and changing diapers. Trying to figure out a feeding schedule which one can follow will therefore take some time.

A very important decision which most new mothers have to make is whether to breastfeed or formula feed their newborn. Breastfeeding is the best for an infant. However if breastfeeding is not possible for any reason, formula feeding is recommended by doctors.

Newborn’s Feeding Schedule up to Six Months

Following is a brief schedule for feeding babies up to six months of age:

Newborn Feeding Schedule

First breastfeeding to a newborn baby must be done immediately after birth. This is because the first breast milk of a mother is very nutritious. It is extremely healthy and rich in a number of natural vitamins, minerals and proteins which help to protect the baby from a whole lot of infections and diseases.

A newborn baby needs breastfeeding in intervals of two hours. In case the baby is not being breast fed, formula milk too can be given within the intervals of two hours maximum. To decide on the brand and quantity of formula feed it is important to consult a doctor who will be able to prescribe appropriately based on the needs of an infant.

When to Feed?

Both breastfed babies and infants nurtured with formula should be allowed to feed on demand. This helps them to eat only when hungry and sets the stage for future weight control. It is best to look out for early signs of hunger that an infant may exhibit like sucking, stirring, stretching, and lip movements.

Is it Ok to Wake a Sleeping Baby to Feed?

Babies sleep a lot immediately after birth. In the initial days a baby will take very little feed at one sitting. Normally babies feed only an ounce or two at the most. However, the newborn will need to eat frequently. Hence babies must not be allowed to miss a feed even if they are sleeping. After every three hours it is perfectly alright to wake a sleeping baby and feed her. This will avoid the chances of the baby getting dehydrated or suffering from malnutrition.

When to Introduce Cereals?

Babies in the age group of four to six months can be introduced to cereals. Rice cereal or oatmeal is good to begin with. Breast milk or formula milk may be added in the cereal to get the consistency which is right to feed the baby with a spoon.

Initially a child will consume four to eight ounces of breast milk or formula milk 4 to 5 times a day. In addition she may eat two spoons of cereal two to three times daily. As solid food is introduced to a baby the quantity of breast or formula milk being consumed will gradually reduce.

Learning about an infant feeding program which works best for you and your baby is essential to ensure that your baby is receiving all the nutrients required for her normal development.

Do not over feed an infant. Babies have their own way of demanding to be fed. Following an infant feeding schedule can help ensure healthy growth and development for your baby. However, do not feel upset when a newborn does not drink the whole bottle fed to her or finish the quantity of intake recommended by the doctor. It is necessary to feed babies when they are hungry. Parents must be in a position to recognise and respect signals given by a child that she is full and stop feeding thereafter.