When should you stop feeding baby on demand?

Understanding Feeding on Demand
Feeding a baby on demand is a common practice among new parents, particularly in the early months of life. This approach allows infants to eat whenever they show signs of hunger, which is crucial for their growth and development. However, as babies mature, parents often wonder when it might be appropriate to transition from this flexible feeding style to a more structured schedule.
The Early Months: Feeding on Demand
In the first few weeks of life, feeding on demand is essential. Newborns typically need to eat every 1 to 3 hours, and this frequent feeding helps establish a mother’s milk supply while ensuring that the baby receives adequate nutrition. During this period, parents are encouraged to respond to their baby’s hunger cues, which can include rooting, sucking on their hands, or crying. This responsive feeding not only supports the baby’s physical needs but also fosters a strong emotional bond between parent and child.
Signs It’s Time to Transition
As babies grow, usually around the age of 3 to 4 months, they may begin to develop a more predictable feeding pattern. At this stage, parents might notice that their baby is nursing less frequently and can go longer stretches between feedings. This natural progression can signal that it might be time to consider a more scheduled approach to feeding.
Experts suggest that around 4 to 6 months, parents can start to introduce a routine while still being flexible. This means that while parents can aim for specific feeding times, they should remain attentive to their baby’s hunger signals. For instance, if a baby seems hungry before the scheduled time, it’s important to respond to that need rather than strictly adhering to the clock.
Balancing Structure and Flexibility
Transitioning from on-demand feeding to a more structured schedule doesn’t mean abandoning responsiveness. Instead, it involves finding a balance. Parents can establish a routine that includes regular feeding times while still allowing for flexibility based on the baby’s needs. This approach helps babies learn to self-regulate their appetites, which is an important skill as they grow.
By around 6 months, many parents find that their babies are ready for more regular feeding times, especially as they begin to introduce solid foods. At this point, the focus can shift to ensuring that the baby is getting a balanced diet while still allowing for some flexibility based on their hunger cues.
Conclusion: Trusting Your Instincts
Ultimately, the decision to stop feeding on demand should be guided by both the baby’s developmental cues and the parents’ comfort level. Each baby is unique, and what works for one family may not work for another. Parents are encouraged to trust their instincts and consult with pediatricians if they have concerns about their baby’s feeding habits. The goal is to ensure that the baby is healthy, happy, and developing appropriately, whether through on-demand feeding or a more structured schedule.

When do babies go 4 hours between feedings?

By the end of the first month, most babies consume at least 3 or 4 ounces per feeding, about every 3 to 4 hours. By 6 months old, they may take in 6 to 8 ounces at each of 4 or 5 feedings in 24 hours. Also at about 6 months old, solid foods should start to be added to a baby’s diet.

When can you stop feeding babies every 3 hours?

Most babies usually feel hungry every 3 hours until about 2 months of age and need 4-5 ounces per feeding. As the capacity of their abdomen increases, they go longer between feedings. At 4 months, babies may take up to 6 ounces per feeding and at 6 months, babies might need 8 ounces every 4-5 hours.

How do I wean my on demand breastfed baby?

Start weaning by replacing one breast milk feeding a day with a bottle of infant formula (for your child younger than 12 months old) or with a cup of plain whole cow’s milk or fortified unsweetened soy beverage (for your child 12 months or older). Continue to replace more breast milk feedings over time.

Should you always feed a baby on demand?

Feed your baby when they’re hungry – there’s a reason it feels right to you. Most lactation consultants will recommend feeding on demand – it’s great for establishing a good breastfeeding relationship and healthy supply. And it’s good for your baby’s belly to be full 🙂

What age do you stop feeding on demand?

It is recommended that the best time to switch from on-demand to scheduled feeding is when you introduce your baby to solid baby foods (earliest 6 months of age). This is because when your baby starts on solid foods, many families begin to have their baby join them at their own mealtimes.

When can babies go 4 hours between feedings?

By the end of the first month, most babies consume at least 3 or 4 ounces per feeding, about every 3 to 4 hours. By 6 months old, they may take in 6 to 8 ounces at each of 4 or 5 feedings in 24 hours. Also at about 6 months old, solid foods should start to be added to a baby’s diet.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

How to tell if baby is hungry or wants comfort?

Hunger: A hungry baby actively feeds, takes a full feeding, and is typically easy to lay back down in their crib afterward. Comfort Feeding: Comfort feeding involves suckling at the breast or bottle, similar to using a pacifier, or nursing or feeding briefly.

How long should I demand feed my baby?

6 to 12 Months
This is sometimes called breastfeeding on demand. If your baby seems less interested in breastfeeding after you introduce solid foods, try breastfeeding before you offer other foods. Your breast milk is the most important source of nutrition, even after you start feeding your baby solid foods.

When do babies no longer need night feeds?

between 2 – 4 months
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics [2], most formula-fed babies no longer need night feedings between 2 – 4 months of age.