Baby feeding can seem overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out exactly what’s going on at each stage. 

How much should a baby eat? When should we start solids for a baby? Is it too early for finger foods? Every parent asks this question, and that’s perfectly normal.

A baby feeding chart can help take some of the conjecture out of your everyday routine. It gives you a general idea of what to offer and how much your baby might need, depending on their age.

 Let’s look at a simple guide you can use without all the confusing vocabulary.

Why Use a Baby Feeding Chart?

Babies grow up incredibly fast during their first year. Their nutritional needs change almost monthly. A feeding chart is helpful for every parent.

• Understand when to introduce new foods
• Know how often your baby should eat
• Track growth milestones and appetite changes
• Reduce stress around mealtimes

Of course, every baby is different. Some babies may eat more, and some babies eat less. Firstly, follow your baby’s hunger cues and use charts as flexible guidelines, not hard rules.

Baby Feeding Chart: Birth to 12 Months

Here’s a simple breakdown by age:

Baby’s Age	What to Feed	How Often	Portion Size
0–4 months	Breast milk or infant formula only	Every 2–3 hours	2–4 oz per feeding
4–6 months	Milk + start introducing solids if ready	5–6 feedings + 1 solid meal	1–2 tbsp purée or cereal
6–8 months	Milk + solids (purées, soft foods)	4–5 milk feeds + 2 solid meals	2–4 tbsp solids per meal
8–10 months	Milk + solids + soft finger foods	3–4 milk feeds + 3 meals + snacks	3–5 tbsp solids + small soft pieces
10–12 months	Milk + family foods	3 milk feeds + 3 meals + snacks	Small chopped portions

Here are our Top Picks

1. Baby Foods
2. Bibs & Burp Cloths
3. Bottle-Feeding
4. Breastfeeding
5. Food Mills
6. Food Storage
7. Highchairs & Booster Seats
8. Pillows & Pillow Covers
9. Solid Feeding

Signs Your Baby Is Ready for Solid Foods

Not sure when to start solids? Watch for these signs, usually around 6 months:

• Sits up with little or no support
• Shows interest in your food
• Can close lips around a spoon
• Good head and neck control
• Reduced tongue-thrust reflex (not pushing food back out)

If you’re ever unsure, a quick chat with your pediatrician can help you know when your baby is ready.

Best First Foods for Babies

When you start solids, simple and single-ingredient foods are best:

• Iron-fortified baby cereals (like oatmeal or rice cereal)
• Mashed avocado
• Steamed and puréed sweet potatoes
• Banana mash
• Puréed peas or carrots

Introduce one new food at a time, and wait about 3–5 days before offering another. That way, if there’s an allergy, you’ll know what caused it.

Nutritious Foods for Your Baby

Here’s a list of some of the best foods to support your baby’s growth, development, and overall health:

Breast Milk: Breast milk is often called “liquid gold” for a reason — it provides nearly all the essential nutrients a baby needs during the first year of life. It also plays a critical role in building a strong immune system.

Apples: Smooth apple purée is one of the top choices for early weaning. Apples are rich in pectin and packed with vitamins and minerals that support your baby’s digestion and overall health.

Avocados: Creamy and nutrient-dense, avocados are loaded with healthy fats and have more protein than any other fruit or vegetable. They’re an excellent first food for growing babies.

Iron-Fortified Cereal: Cereals fortified with iron, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, are a simple and effective way to boost iron levels. Iron is essential for brain development and energy.

Red Meat: Lean red meats are an important source of protein, iron, vitamin B6, zinc, riboflavin, and niacin. Small, soft pieces can be introduced once your baby is ready for solids.

Broccoli: This green powerhouse is loaded with vitamin C, beta-carotene, folic acid, iron, potassium, and fiber. To preserve its nutrients, it’s best to steam or microwave broccoli rather than boil it.

Beets: Beets are packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and folic acid — all essential nutrients for healthy growth and development.

Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and full of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, sweet potatoes are a favorite among babies. They can be baked, mashed, or pureed, making them an easy addition to a 6–9-month-old’s diet.

Bananas: Soft, easy to mash, and naturally sweet, bananas are rich in carbohydrates and fiber. They are often one of the first foods introduced around 4 months of age.

Prunes: Prunes are a sweet and gentle remedy for digestive issues like constipation. They can be introduced between 6 and 10 months and are easy to blend into baby meals.

Carrots: Carrots are a naturally sweet vegetable full of beta-carotene and vitamin A. They can be pureed alone, mixed with fruits, or combined with grains and lentils for a hearty meal.

Common Questions About Baby Feeding

Q: When should I introduce water?
A: Once your baby starts solids (around 6 months), you can offer a few sips of water with meals. Breast milk or formula should still be the main drink.

Q: Is it okay to let my baby feed?
A: Absolutely! Around 8–10 months, babies love exploring finger foods like soft fruits, cooked pasta, and small bits of cheese.

Q: How do I know if my baby is eating enough?
A: Watch their growth curve and diaper output. A healthy baby usually has 6+ wet diapers a day and gains weight steadily.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your baby is a journey — sometimes messy, sometimes magical. Every bite they take is a step toward growing strong and healthy.
A baby feeding chart is a tool to help you stay on track, but your baby will always be your best guide. Follow their lead, be patient, and enjoy every sticky, silly, beautiful moment.

---

Note: This article is for general information only. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider for personalized feeding advice.