Baby Feeding Schedules & Baby Food Chart for the First Year

Feeding your baby in the first year is an important part of their healthy growth and development. A good feeding schedule helps meet their changing needs and builds healthy eating habits for the future. This simple guide includes a step-by-step food chart to help you confidently nourish your little one at every stage.

WHY BABY FEEDING SCHEDULES MATTER?

A well-structured feeding schedule helps your baby develop a sense of routine and keeps track of their nutritional needs. It ensures they receive sufficient nourishment during critical growth phases while minimizing stress for parents.

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or transitioning to solids, following a baby feeding schedule ensures your baby thrives.

BABY FEEDING SCHEDULE & FOOD CHART FOR THE FIRST YEAR

From Birth to 4 Months: The Liquid Phase

What to Feed

• Breast Milk (8-12 times/day on demand): Packed with nutrients and immune-boosting benefits.
• Formula (as per doctor’s guidance): A great alternative when breastfeeding isn’t possible.

Amount

• Newborns (0-4 weeks): Start with 1-2 oz per feeding, gradually increasing to 4 oz.
• 4 Months: Around 4-6 oz per feeding, 6-8 feedings/day.

Pro Tip

Maintain close contact with your pediatrician to monitor weight gain and growth milestones.

4 to 6 Months: Introducing Solids

This stage is exciting as your little one begins exploring flavors and textures!

Signs Your Baby Is Ready for Solids

• They can sit up and support their head.
• They exhibit interest in solid food (e.g., reaching out for your plate!).
• Diminished tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out of their mouth).

What to Feed

• Continue breast milk or formula as the main source of nutrition.
• Add single-grain cereals (e.g., rice cereal). These should be mixed with breast milk or formula for a smooth texture.
• Pureed veggies and fruits like carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, and pears.

Amount

• Start with 1–2 teaspoons of solids, gradually increasing to 1–2 tablespoons once daily.

Pro Tip

Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting 3-5 days before trying another to monitor for potential allergies.

6 to 9 Months: Expanding Flavors & Textures

At this stage, your baby’s diet becomes more diverse. This is also when some babies may cut down on milk intake as solids become more prominent.

What to Feed

• Non-Citrus Fruits (bananas, avocados).
• Vegetables (spinach, peas, squash).
• Protein (pureed chicken, lentils).
• Grain Options (oatmeal, small pieces of soft bread).

Amount

• Solids 3 times/day (2-4 tablespoons each).
• Breast milk or formula ~24–30 oz daily.

Pro Tip

Use baby-safe feeding utensils and ensure food is mashed or pureed to avoid choking hazards.

9 to 12 Months: Preparing for Toddlerhood

At this stage, your baby can enjoy more table foods. They’re not only ready for exciting flavors but will also likely want to feed themselves.

What to Feed

• Textured Fruits and Vegetables (cut into small pieces).
• Cooked eggs, cheese, and yogurt.
• Finger Foods (soft fruits, dry cereal).
• Water from a sippy cup (introduce alongside meals).

Amount

• 3 solid meals/day, with snacks.
• Breast milk or formula ~16–24 oz daily.

Pro Tip

Stick with nutritious, whole-food options. Avoid added sugars, salt, or processed finger foods.

Benefits of maintaining a Baby Food Chart

Curious about why many parents swear by using a food chart? Here’s what it offers:

• Structure: Simplifies daily planning for parents.
• Tracking Nutrition: Ensures your baby meets important milestones with the right nutrients.
• Variety: Introducing diverse ingredients early can cultivate adventurous eaters!

Best Baby Food Options

When choosing food for your baby, prioritize quality. Whether you’re preparing meals at home or opting for store-bought products, keep these tips in mind.

Homemade Baby Food

• Use fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible.
• Steam and puree vegetables and fruits to preserve nutrients.

Store-Bought Baby Food

• Read the labels! Avoid jars with added sugar or preservatives.
• Choose brands prioritizing simple, natural recipes.

Conclusion

Your baby’s first year of eating is a mix of gradual introductions and experimentation. It’s about providing the right nutrition while nurturing their taste buds and curiosity. Following a structured baby feeding schedule and food chart can help simplify this exciting part of parenting.

At Bellamy's Organic, we understand how important it is to provide your baby with the best nutrition for healthy growth. Visit our website for expert tips and premium organic baby food options. Let’s make every mealtime a wholesome and joyful experience together!