Feeding My Infant

Although feeding an infant can feel like a round-the-clock commitment, it is also a time to begin bonding with them and building a long-lasting, trusting relationship. Infants only need breast milk or formula for the first 4 to 6 months of life, and they usually let you know when they are hungry. Often, you may notice babies moving their hands to their mouth to signal they are hungry.

As infants continue to grow, the type of food and the intake of nutrition will need to change. It is easy to map when these changes and milestones should occur by referencing the different feeding stages. Luckily, there are plenty of resources available such as WIC (Women, Infants and Children) that provides nutritional food assistance and monthly healthy food packages.

0-6 months: Breast milk or formula and nothing else! Infants only need breast milk or formula unless your pediatrician says something different. The fat in breast milk and formula helps your baby’s brain to grow. Babies do not need water during this time. Cereal should also not go into the bottle unless advised by a doctor to prevent choking.
4-6 months: Are we ready for the next step? Some infants show signs of being ready to start puree. Talk to your doctor about when your baby will be ready. When ready, introduce one “single-ingredient” food at a time, then wait a few days before starting the next “single-ingredient” food. Talk to your child's doctor about the best time to introduce pureed foods.
7-9 months: Start thinking about texture: Avoid food sizes and textures that your baby could choke on like whole grapes, hot dogs, or whole nuts. Foods should be soft, small enough to avoid choking, and easy to swallow.
10-12months: Mealtime is a fun time! Encourage your child to try new foods with their hands. It helps them develop their senses. Continue giving breast milk or formula until your child reaches 12 months of age.