Once your baby reaches 3 months, you’ll notice many changes. Compared to the newborn stage, your little one seems much more interactive. These developments mean you need to get your 3-month-old baby feeding schedule right to keep up with their needs.
We’ll cover lots of questions like, “How much to feed a 3-month-old baby?” and more in our guide. Read on to find schedules, tips, and solutions for common concerns.
3-Month-Old Baby Feeding Guide
Find out what your 3-month-old baby needs to thrive and discover answers to common challenges.
Your 3-Month-Old Baby’s Nutritional Needs
Your 3-month-old baby is having lots of new experiences and needs a solid feeding routine to help them thrive. It’s still too early to wean your baby, so breast milk or formula is their sole source of nutrition. Both types of milk are packed with nutrients to fuel your developing baby.
Some moms enjoy breastfeeding their 3-month-old; after all, breast milk is cost-free and easily accessible. Others prefer bottle-feeding, as it lets them share this duty with their partner. Whichever method you choose, you’re doing a great job!
Feeding Concerns for a 3-Month-Old Baby
It’s normal to experience concerns when it comes to feeding your 3-month-old baby. These may include:
- Feeding amounts: You may be wondering how much to feed a 3-month-old baby when they’re growing so quickly. A rule of thumb is 4 to 5 ounces (115 to 140 ml) at every feed.
- Feeding frequency: Another common question is, “How often to feed a 3-month-old baby?” Around every 3 to 4 hours is a good schedule, but you may need to feed more frequently if your baby appears hungry.
- Feeding difficulties: These can include fussiness at feeding time or refusing to feed. Babies at this age can get overstimulated by their environment. In this case, try feeding your baby in a quiet place.
3-Month-Old Baby Feeding Schedules and Patterns
Learn about feeding frequencies and amounts and how to adapt your baby’s schedule.
Typical Feeding Schedule for Your 3-Month-Old Baby
Experts recommend offering 4 to 5 ounces (115 to 140 ml) of breast or formula milk every 3 to 4 hours to 3-month-old babies.
Of course, your baby’s demands may vary. If they appear particularly hungry, you can bring their feed forward.
Look for signs, such as your baby:
- Searching for your breast or the bottle;
- Sucking or chewing on their hands;
- Appearing agitated or fussing.
How to Adapt Feeding Schedules Based on Your Baby’s Needs
If your 3-month-old baby appears hungry, you can feed them on demand. Take it in turns with your partner to feed your baby if possible. This will give you a chance to take a break during this challenging phase.
If you’re worried your baby is not feeding enough, consult your pediatrician. They can check your little one and offer advice on encouraging feeding.
Around the 3-month mark, you may be thinking of returning to work. Now is a good time to start handing over some feeds to a caregiver so your baby is prepared.
It’s also a great idea to establish a night feeding routine. By now, your baby should be going a little longer between feeds. Experiment with the timing of the last feed of the day so you get a good night’s sleep.
Tips for Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Your 3-Month-Old
Read our tips to help make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your 3-month-old a positive experience.
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
To start:
- Sit comfortably before you start breastfeeding (consider a nursing pillow to support your back).
- Get your baby into a good position. At 3 months, you can sit your baby on your lap, supporting their back with your arm.
- Help them to latch on by brushing their mouth with your nipple. Ensure they take in some of the areola (the colored area around the nipple) as well as the nipple.
Ensure your baby gets enough milk by doing these:
- Check that they have latched on properly.
- Feed them on demand during growth spurts.
- Offer both breasts at each feed.
To continue breastfeeding when you return to work:
- Make a plan with your employer to enable you to express and store breast milk at work.
- Invest in a breast pump and accessories.
- Store breast milk in the refrigerator at work or in an insulated cooler.
Bottle-Feeding Tips for a 3-Month-Old Baby
Here’s how to select the right formula and bottle:
- Choose a formula suitable for your 3-month-old.
- Graduate to faster-flow nipples according to your baby’s changing needs.
- If your baby has problems with gas, try an anti-colic bottle to reduce air consumption.
- Use a self-sterilizing bottle to make cleaning easy.
How to bottle-feed your 3-month-old:
- Sit comfortably with your back supported.
- Place your baby in an upright or semi-upright position.
- When they open their mouth, ensure the nipple is angled toward the hard palate.
- Ensure the nipple fills fully with milk.
- Keep the bottle horizontal.
- Give your baby regular breaks.
How to Track Your 3-Month-Old Baby’s Feeding
Keep a record of your baby’s feeding schedule to understand their changing needs.
Keeping a Feeding Log
Write down — or record on a digital app — the date and time of each feed. Also note the amount of formula consumed or the time your baby spends breastfeeding. This will help you identify changing patterns.
Tools to Help with Feeding
Check out the best tools to help you with feeding:
- Anti-colic bottles to reduce air consumption
- Self-sterilizing bottles for convenience
- Formula for 3-month-old babies
- Portable breast pump kit with accessories to take to work
- Insulated cooler to store breast milk in
- Nursing pillow to make feeding time comfortable
Understanding Your Baby’s Nutritional Needs
Understanding your 3-month-old baby’s changing needs at this stage of development is important. They will be experiencing dramatic growth spurts, so be sure to keep on top of their nutritional needs.
Follow our tips for schedules, feeding amounts, and tracking your baby’s habits to ensure they continue to thrive.
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FAQs
Can I feed my 3-month-old baby food?
The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends waiting until your baby is 6 months old to introduce solid food.
How do I know if my 3-month-old baby is getting enough milk?
Signs that your baby is getting enough milk include appearing content after a feed, producing several wet and dirty diapers a day, and gaining weight steadily.
What’s the right 3-month-old baby feeding amount?
Generally, 3-month-old babies need 4 to 5 ounces (115 to 140 ml) every 3 to 4 hours.
