Overview

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or combination feeding, this guide covers common challenges and practical routines that can work for your family. Babies’ feeding patterns evolve as they grow—especially during growth spurts and around three months when many begin spacing feeds while taking larger amounts per session.

Baby Feeding Schedule: A Guide to Infant Feeding Patterns

It’s normal for feeding rhythms to change over the first months. Follow your baby’s cues and expect the routine to adapt over time.

Baby Growth Spurts and Cluster Feeding Explained

Just when a routine settles, a growth spurt can increase your baby’s appetite for a few days—often showing up as cluster feeding (more frequent feeds). If breastfeeding, supply typically adjusts within 2–3 days of frequent demand.

Common growth spurt timing

• 3 weeks: first major growth spurt
• 6 weeks: second significant growth period
• 3 months: major developmental leap

3-Month Feeding Pattern Changes

Around three months, many babies naturally move to less frequent feeds while taking more per feed. This reflects increasing stomach capacity and more efficient feeding.

Signs of normal evolution

• Longer intervals between feeds
• More efficient feeding sessions
• Better stretches of sleep between feeds
• Continued healthy weight gain

Introducing Solid Foods

Most healthy babies are developmentally ready to explore solids at about six months, while breast milk or formula remains their primary nutrition during early weaning. Include your baby in family mealtimes even before starting solids to build positive associations.

Readiness signs

• Sits upright with minimal support
• Shows interest in family meals
• Tongue-thrust reflex has diminished
• Can bring objects to the mouth independently

Weaning timeline

• Before 6 months: Involve baby in family meals (watching and participating) to encourage positive routines.
• 6–7 months: Start with one small meal daily when baby is well-rested and happy. Exploration is the goal.
• 7–9 months: Gradually increase to two or three light meals alongside regular milk feeds.

Recognising Hunger and Fullness Cues

Early hunger cues

• Head turning and rooting (seeking nipple or bottle)
• Hand-to-mouth movements, lip smacking
• Increased alertness and activity
• Opening and closing mouth repeatedly

Advanced hunger & fullness signals

• Leaning towards food or bottle = continued interest
• Turning head away / pushing food away = fullness
• Slowing feeding pace = nearing satisfaction
• Playing with food rather than eating = reduced hunger

You and your baby will develop a pattern together—trust their cues and your instincts.

Common Feeding Problems: Reflux

Reflux is common in babies under one. Gentle adjustments can help reduce discomfort.

Strategies that may help

• Upright positions: Hold baby upright during feeds and keep them upright afterwards for as long as practical.
• Regular burping: Pause to burp during feeds to reduce trapped air.
• Feeding technique: Seek advice on breastfeeding position or bottle-feeding technique.
• Smaller, more frequent feeds: May help prevent overfeeding and reduce reflux symptoms.

Supporting Milk Supply

• Alternate breasts during sessions to maintain balance
• Consider pumping after feeds to signal increased demand
• Stay well-hydrated; dehydration can affect supply
• Rest when possible—fatigue can impact supply

Feeding can make you hungry—keep easy snacks and water nearby.

Individual Feeding Personalities

Every baby has unique preferences and rhythms—there’s no single “perfect” way to feed.

• Routine-oriented: Thrive on consistent schedules
• Flexible feeders: Do well with responsive, on-demand approaches
• Fast feeders: Finish quickly and efficiently
• Leisurely feeders: Prefer slow, relaxed sessions

What matters most is a feeding relationship built on trust, understanding, and responsiveness to your baby’s needs—and the approach that fits your family.

When to Seek Feeding Support

Reach out to healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, or parent support groups if:

• Your baby shows poor weight gain or feeding difficulties
• You experience persistent pain or discomfort with feeding
• You have questions about frequency or amounts
• You need emotional support during challenging periods

Getting help early can make a big difference.