Infant Feeding Schedule

Just like when beginning to breastfeed, it will seem hard to establish an infant feeding schedule at first but once this is achieved you will be able to relax and share the enjoyment of feeding with dad or other family members. Another advantage to bottlefeeding is that formula takes longer to digest and so the time between feeds will be longer giving you a much needed opportunity to catch up on housework, or sleep, you will then feel better able to cope with the disturbed nights and demands of a new baby.

It is probably best to start with a slow flow bottle until baby is used to bottlefeeding. Hold him in a position so that his head is slightly higher than the rest of his body and hold the bottle so that the nipple and the neck are full of formula. Gently touch baby's mouth with the teat until he latches on and starts to feed, keeping the bottle at right angles to his mouth. Make sure the milk is flowing smoothly and baby is not taking in too much at a time. If you notice air bubbles entering the bottle then the milk is flowing, otherwise, check for a clogged teat.

Until a sound infant feeding schedule is established it is best to feed on demand. A newborn of up to 4.5 kg (10 pounds) will usually take around 90ml/3oz per feed in the first few weeks but it is a good idea to keep some sort of record of the amount he is taking, it will help you to know when the amount of formula needs to be increased and will also give you peace of mind to know he is feeding well and perhaps cut down on wasted formula. Do not try to make him take more than he wants and do not assume that he needs feeding every time he cries, babies love a cuddle sometimes as well.

Baby will take in air whilst feeding so he will need burping after and maybe during his feed. Simply let him lie over your shoulder and rub or gently pat his back until the air is up.

After the newborn stage and up to 6 months baby will take around 160ml/5oz of formula at each feed, making a total daily intake of around 1 litre/30oz.

From 6 months onwards he can take up to 220ml/8oz per feed, a total of 900ml/32oz per day.

These amounts are a only rough guideline to establishing an infant feeding schedule as all babies require different amounts and start from different birth weights. Be guided by your baby.

Babies being fed on formula will sometimes require additional water, be careful to only give small quantities at a time otherwise he may be so full of water he cannot take his proper feed. The water must be boiled and cooled first until baby is over 6 months old.

Formula can cause some babies to become constipated, in which case, extra water may help to soften the stools. A good guide is to keep a note of baby's nappies, during a day he should soak at least 6 - if not he may need extra fluid to prevent dehydration.

To find out more about the advantages of bottlefeeding click here