Feeding your little one

Are you feeling a little overwhelmed or curious because you don't know which feeding approach is best for you? We have provided a few questions, ideas, and instructions to help you understand this better.

How can I tell if my baby is hungry?

Crying might sometimes indicate hunger. However, recognising these cues and feeding a baby before they cry is far more convenient than waiting until they are agitated. 

• Becoming agitated

• Sucking their fists or fingers and mumbling

• Moving their head and opening their mouth (known as rooting)

How frequently should I feed my baby? 

Did you know your baby is born with a tiny stomach the size of a marble? Due to their size, you will need to feed them frequently, usually every couple of hours at first, both day and night.

At first, you may feel like you're doing nothing but feeding your baby! As they mature, their stomach expands, resulting in longer feeding intervals. 

Breast milk or formula? 

Finding the right technique to feed your little one can be challenging or stressful at times, and some mothers change how they feed their babies because they are having difficulties. You must be happy with how you're feeding your baby, so don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. 

Breastfeeding has numerous advantages. For example, it lowers your baby's chance of infection now and in the future and the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). 

However, there are other reasons why women choose not to breastfeed or discontinue breastfeeding. You do not need to feel bad if you want to try combined feeding for a bit or formula feeding your baby instead. It is your right to decide how to feed your baby, and you can change your mind anytime. 

Here’s a little guide on bottle feeding and how to do it…

Bottle feeding equipment

You'll need numerous bottles, teats, a bottle brush, and sterilising tools like a cold-water steriliser, microwave, or steam steriliser. 

There is no proof that one style of teat or bottle is superior to another. Simple, easy-to-clean and sterilised bottles are usually the best option. 

Making bottles for your little one

Ensure that bottles and teats are sterile until your baby is 12 months old. Before handling the sterile bottle and teats, properly wash your hands. 

If you're using infant formula, carefully follow the directions on the package when preparing the feed. 

How to Bottle-feed your child 

Bottle feeding allows you to feel close to your baby while getting to know and bond with them. 

• Make sure you're seated comfortably and that your baby is close by. Enjoy holding your little one, looking into their eyes, and conversing with them while feeding them. 

• For bottle feedings, keep your infant in a semi-upright position. Support their head so they can easily breathe and swallow. 

• Brush the teat against your baby's lips and let them pull in the teat when they open their mouth wide. 

• Allow plenty of time for your infant to feed. 

• NEVER leave your baby alone with a propped-up bottle to feed, as they may choke on the milk. 

• Place the teat gently in the baby's mouth. Maintain the bottle's horizontal position (just slightly tipped). This allows the milk to flow evenly and prevents your baby from inhaling air. 

• If the teat flattens when feeding, gently pull on the corner of your baby's mouth to remove the suction. 

• Replace the teat with another sterile teat if it becomes clogged. 

Follow your baby's lead. Every baby is unique! Your baby will understand how much milk they require.

Winding your child 

• During a feed, your baby may need to burp and may need small breaks. 

• Hold your baby upright and gently touch or stroke their back to bring up any wind when they've had enough milk. 

After you've completed bottle-feeding your infant, dispose of any unused formula or breast milk.