Infant feeding is a complex process and, although each child develops individual feeding and eating habits, some general tips apply to all babies. Breastfed babies require feeding every one to three hours, according to the National Institutes of Health, and formula-fed infants every two to four hours. The Institutes note that wet diapers five times every day means that baby has an adequate supply of milk. This and other general tips help determine baby's eating and breastfeeding habits.
One New Experience
Add one taste experience at a time. The New Jersey WIC recommends adding only one food at a time. After a period of five days, a new food may be introduced. This allows time for the taste experience to be recognized, as well for identifying any food allergies.
Prepare Adequate Formula for Feeding
Preparing adequate amounts of formula saves time and provides adequate nutrition for each feeding. The University of California Cooperative Extension Service states that newborns take 3 to 4 oz. of formula every three to four hours, with babies 6 months old needing up to 8 oz. three to four times each day. At the age of 1 year, children should take in 18 to 22 oz. of formula per day.
Bottle Purity
The baby bottle should remain free from any odors or tastes. The New Jersey WIC recommends using the bottle only for water, human milk or formula.
Pleasing Dining Experience
When feeding time is a pleasant experience, children are more receptive to eating. Mealtime is also a time to build trust as well as provide sustenance, according to the Wisconsin Child Care Improvement Project. The agency states that young babies are more receptive to feeding when cuddled during feeding time. An unhurried feeding time, without interruption, allows the child to explore the tastes and textures of food.
Feeding Solids
Feeding solid foods is easier and safer, according to the South Dakota Department of Health, when the child can sit without any outside support and is able hold the neck in a steady position and "draw in the lower lip when spoon is removed from mouth." The child should also be able to swallow and keep any food inside the mouth without difficulty.
Clear Mouth
The health of baby teeth, even though they are temporary, is important. Any milk or food left in the mouth after feeding should be removed to avoid tooth decay, according to the South Dakota Department of Health.
Offer Water
Water is an essential part of baby's diet beginning at 6 months, and should be offered twice a day.
Nipple Confusion
The National Institutes of Health recommends avoiding introduction of bottles with rubber nipples during the first few weeks of breastfeeding when the baby is learning the feeding technique. The difference in nipples is confusing to the newborn, according to the agency.
Formula Reuse
Leftover formula should never be reused. Bacteria in the unused portion may make baby ill, even if the unused portion is immediately refrigerated.
Recognizing When Baby is Full
Never force a child to eat. If the child plays, spits or even falls asleep, it is an indication that he or she has had enough food, according to the South Dakota Department of Health.
References
- University of California Cooperative Extension: TIps on Infant Feeding
- South Dakota Department of Health: Steps to Infant Feeding: General Tips
- Wisconsin Child Care Improvement Project, Inc: Best Practice Tips: Infant/Toddler Feeding and Nutrition
- Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia: Breastfeeding Tips
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Breastfeeding: Proper Handling and Storage of Human Milk
