"How Often Should My Baby Eat?" A Simple Guide to Feeding Milestones

If you’ve ever felt like your day is just one long cycle of "what should I feed the baby now?", you’re definitely not alone. Between milk sessions and starting solids, the math can get a little fuzzy. Here's a simple breakdown of what those mealtime milestones usually look like: 

6-7 Months

At this stage, aim for 1 to 2 meals a day.  "Eating" is largely exposure and practice at this stage. Don't worry if your baby isn't actually consuming much of what is offered! Remember, breastmilk or formula is still their primary source of nutrition, so this is just a low-pressure introduction to new flavours.

8-9 Months

Now that they’ve got the hang of swallowing, you can move up to 2 meals a day. Research suggests that the optimal window to introduce textured foods is between 6-9 months, when babies are the most receptive and wired to explore with their mouths. Keep offering that breastmilk or formula, but start having a little more fun with different food consistencies!

10-11 Months

At this stage, your little one is likely ready for 3 meals a day. This is a great time to support their developing eating skills by progressing toward finger foods or "table foods" (soft versions of what the rest of the family is eating). Breastmilk and/or formula should still be their primary source of nutrition. 

12-15 Months

Our active toddlers need to eat more frequently than we do, due to their small tummies. They needs 3 meals and 2 snacks or mini-meals in between. Provide meals and snacks at consistent timings, and always follow your baby’s lead. Letting them eat according to their own hunger cues is the best way to raise a mindful eater.

The Takeaways

These stages are meant to be a helpful roadmap, but your baby’s appetite might change from day to day depending on growth spurts or teething. Focus on the process of learning to eat rather than the amount on the plate. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for professional advice. Children are unique in their ways and there is no "one-way" to tackle the vast scope of feeding and eating.