Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider with questions about your baby's health.

One of the most common questions new parents have is: "How much and how often should my baby eat?" The answer changes as your baby grows, and it can feel overwhelming to keep up. This guide walks through general baby feeding schedules by age, from the newborn days all the way to 12 months, covering both breastfeeding and formula.

Keep in mind that every baby is different. The amounts and timings here are general guidelines, not strict rules. Your pediatrician is always the best source of personalized advice.

Table of Contents

Newborn (0 to 4 Weeks)

During the first few weeks, your baby's stomach is tiny, roughly the size of a cherry at birth and growing to about the size of a walnut by week two. Feeds are small and frequent.

Night feeds are normal and expected at this stage. Your baby needs those calories to grow. If you have any concerns about your newborn's intake, talk to your pediatrician right away.

1 to 3 Months

As your baby's stomach grows, feeds become slightly larger and a bit more spaced out. Most babies start settling into a somewhat predictable rhythm during this period.

You may notice your baby going through a growth spurt around 6 weeks and again around 3 months, when they may want to eat more frequently for a few days. This is perfectly normal.

4 to 6 Months

By 4 months, many babies have settled into a more regular pattern. Some families begin discussing the introduction of solids with their pediatrician around this time.

If your pediatrician gives the green light on starting solids, they typically complement milk feeds rather than replacing them at this stage.

6 to 9 Months

This is when many babies begin exploring solid foods in earnest. Breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition, but solids start playing a bigger role.

Let your baby set the pace with solids. Some take to food quickly, while others need more time. Both are normal.

9 to 12 Months

By this stage, solid foods make up a larger part of your baby's diet. Many babies are eating three meals plus snacks.

Talk to your pediatrician about when and how to transition from formula or breast milk as your baby approaches their first birthday.

Reading Your Baby's Hunger Cues

Rather than watching the clock too closely, it can be helpful to learn your baby's hunger signals. Early cues include rooting, bringing hands to mouth, and lip smacking. Crying is typically a late hunger sign.

As your baby gets older, they may reach for food, open their mouth when food is offered, or get excited at mealtime. Learning to read these cues can help you feel more confident about when to feed.

Why Tracking Feeds Helps

When you are sleep-deprived and juggling everything, it is easy to lose track of when the last feed was or how many ounces your baby had. Keeping a simple log can help you spot patterns, share useful data with your pediatrician, and feel more in control.

Apps like Remi make this effortless. Instead of filling out forms, you can simply say what happened and Remi logs it for you. It takes the mental load off so you can focus on your baby.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a newborn eat?
Most newborns eat every 2 to 3 hours, or about 8 to 12 times per day. Breastfed babies may feed more frequently than formula-fed babies. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance for your specific baby.
When can I stop feeding my baby at night?
Many babies are ready to drop nighttime feeds between 4 and 6 months, but this varies widely. Some babies need nighttime feeds longer. Talk to your pediatrician about when it is appropriate for your baby.
How do I know if my baby is eating enough?
Common signs that your baby is eating enough include steady weight gain, 6 or more wet diapers per day after the first week, and a content demeanor between feeds. Your pediatrician will track growth at regular checkups.
Should I feed on demand or on a schedule?
Most pediatricians recommend feeding on demand for newborns, meaning you feed whenever your baby shows hunger cues. As babies grow older, natural patterns tend to emerge. Talk to your pediatrician about what approach works best for your family.
When should I introduce solids into my baby's feeding schedule?
Most babies are ready for solids around 6 months of age, though some may show readiness signs a bit earlier. Look for signs like sitting up with support, showing interest in food, and loss of the tongue-thrust reflex. Always check with your pediatrician before starting solids.

Track Your Baby's Feeds with Remi

Just say "she just had 5oz" and Remi logs it. No forms. No fuss.

Try Remi Free