Because every little tummy grows differently — and Tenderly is here to help you every step of the way.

👶 1–3 Months: Feeding Basics

During the first few months, your baby’s appetite grows quickly! Between 1 and 3 months, most little ones become more expressive about when they’re hungry or full.

On average, a 2-month-old may drink 4 to 5 ounces every 3–4 hours, according to the AAP. Whether you’re breastfeeding or using formula, follow your baby’s cues — they’ll let you know when it’s time to eat or when they’ve had enough.

If you’re formula-feeding, you may want to choose a blend that includes 2’-FL HMO, a prebiotic compound also found in breast milk that supports healthy digestion and immune development.

🥣 4–6 Months: Getting Ready for Solids

Most babies are ready to start exploring solids around 6 months of age, though some show signs a little earlier. Look for these readiness cues:

Good head and neck control

Sitting up with little or no support

Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (so food stays in the mouth)

Showing interest in grabbing or reaching for food

Start slowly — about 1–2 tablespoons twice a day — and remember that breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition during the first year. Around 4 months, babies usually take 4–6 ounces per feeding, increasing to 8 ounces every 4–5 hours by 6 months.

💗 Reading Hunger Cues

Even though babies can’t talk, they’re excellent communicators! Signs your baby may be hungry include:

Alertness or restlessness

Lip-smacking or opening their mouth

Putting hands to their mouth

Rooting (turning head side-to-side looking for the nipple)

Fussiness

Crying is a late hunger cue, so try to feed before your little one reaches that stage.

🧡 6–9 Months: Exploring New Flavors

At this stage, breast milk or formula still provides most of your baby’s calories — up to 32 ounces per day. Growth spurts and teething can affect appetite, so continue following hunger cues rather than strict schedules.

Offer solids when you eat together so baby can join the family routine. Early feeding is about discovery and experience, not just nutrition.

Try introducing:

Iron-fortified baby cereal

Puréed fruits, vegetables, and meats

Soft finger foods (like steamed veggies or banana)

Yogurt, cottage cheese, or simple casseroles

💡 Tip: Introduce one new food at a time and wait 3–5 days before adding another to help spot any allergies or sensitivities.

🍎 9–12 Months: Little Foodies in Action

By now, babies typically enjoy 7–8 ounces per feeding and up to 32 ounces of formula or breast milk in 24 hours. About half of their calories now come from solid food.

Your baby’s curiosity about food will blossom — let them explore textures and tastes safely! Offer bite-sized pieces, dips like yogurt or oatmeal, and encourage self-feeding. Always avoid hard, round, or small foods that could pose a choking risk.

🥛 After 12 Months: Transitioning to Table Food

Once your baby turns 1, most calories should come from family meals. You can begin serving whole milk (about 2–3 cups per day) or other calcium-rich options.

Establishing a routine of set meals and snacks helps your toddler develop healthy habits and excitement for new foods. Every child is different, so consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance as your little one grows.

🌷 The Tenderly Promise

At Tenderly, we’re here to make feeding time less stressful and more joyful — one spoonful at a time.
💗 How we care for you!