Starting solids is one of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year. Between 6 and 12 months, your little one begins exploring new tastes, textures, and feeding routines while still getting most of their nutrition from breastmilk or formula.

At Wee Little Ones, we know feeding your baby can sometimes feel overwhelming — especially when every baby is different. That’s why we created this simple baby feeding schedule to help guide parents through the 6–12 month journey.

Baby Feeding Schedule by Age

 

6–8 Months Feeding Schedule

At this stage, breastmilk or formula remains your baby’s primary source of nutrition. Solid foods are mainly for learning and exploration. Most babies start with smooth purees or soft mashed foods around 6 months.

Example Daily Routine:

• Morning: Breastmilk or formula (240–300 ml)
• Breakfast: Soft family foods (60 ml / ¼ cup)
• Snack: Healthy snack + milk
• Lunch: Balanced meal (60 ml each food group)
• Snack: Finger foods
• Dinner: Family foods (60 ml / ¼ cup)
• Before Bed: Breastmilk or formula (180–240 ml)
  

Best Foods for 6–8 Month Babies

• Iron-fortified baby cereal
• Avocado
• Sweet potato
• Banana
• Pumpkin
• Pear
• Oatmeal
• Soft vegetables

The CDC recommends introducing solid foods at around 6 months when your baby shows signs of readiness such as sitting upright with support and showing interest in food.

9–10 Months Feeding Schedule

By 9 months, babies usually become more confident eaters and may begin eating mashed foods, soft solids, and finger foods. Many babies also enjoy self-feeding during this stage.

Example Daily Routine:

• Morning: Breastmilk or formula
• Breakfast: Mashed foods (3–4 tbsp)
• Snack: Fruit puree or finger foods
• Lunch: Veggies + protein
• Snack: Finger food + milk
• Dinner: Soft solids
• Before Bed: Breastmilk or formula

Best Foods for 9–10 Month Babies

• Scrambled egg
• Soft pasta
• Yogurt
• Soft fruits
• Cooked vegetables
• Chicken
• Lentils
• Rice
• Toast fingers

Experts recommend gradually increasing meal frequency to 3 meals and 2 snacks daily as your baby grows.

11–12 Months Feeding Schedule

Around 11–12 months, babies often begin eating modified family meals and a wider variety of textures. Finger foods become more important for developing coordination and independence.

Example Daily Routine:

• Morning: Breastmilk or formula
• Breakfast: Soft family foods
• Snack: Healthy snack + milk
• Lunch: Balanced meal
• Snack: Finger foods
• Dinner: Family foods
• Before Bed: Breastmilk or formula

Best Foods for 11–12 Month Babies

• Soft cooked vegetables
• Pasta
• Rice
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Soft meats
• Fruit pieces
• Pancakes
• Oat bars

How Much Milk Does a Baby Need?

Even after starting solids, breastmilk or formula remains important throughout the first year.

Most babies between 6–12 months typically consume:

• 700–950 ml per day of breastmilk or formula
• Small amounts of water after 6 months
• 2–3 meals daily by 9 months
• 3 meals + snacks closer to 12 months

Cow’s milk as a main drink is generally not recommended before 12 months.

Tips for a Healthy Baby Feeding Routine

Follow Your Baby’s Hunger Cues

Every baby is different. Some babies eat more, some less. Watch for cues like:

• Opening their mouth for food
• Leaning toward the spoon
• Turning away when full
• Playing with food when satisfied

Responsive feeding helps babies develop healthy eating habits.

Introduce New Foods Slowly

Offer one new food at a time and monitor for allergies or sensitivities. Common allergens like peanuts and eggs can often be introduced early in safe forms after discussing with your healthcare provider.

Focus on Iron-Rich Foods

Iron becomes especially important after 6 months because babies’ natural iron stores begin to decrease. Great options include:

• Iron-fortified cereals
• Lentils
• Chicken
• Beef
• Beans
• Spinach

Offer a Variety of Textures

Moving from purees to soft solids and finger foods supports oral development and chewing skills.

Common Feeding Questions

When Should Babies Start Solids?

Most babies are ready around 6 months old. Signs include:

• Sitting with support
• Good head control
• Interest in food
• Ability to swallow food properly

Can Babies Drink Water?

Small amounts of water can usually be introduced after 6 months alongside solids.

What Foods Should Babies Avoid?

Avoid:

• Honey before 12 months
• Whole nuts
• Hard foods that pose choking risks
• Sugary drinks
• Excess salt and sugar

Final Thoughts

Feeding your baby between 6–12 months is all about progress, not perfection. Some days your baby may eat everything, and other days only a few bites — and that’s completely normal.

The goal is to create positive mealtime experiences while gradually introducing nutritious foods and routines.

At Wee Little Ones, we’re here to support parents with practical baby tips, feeding essentials, and everyday parenting inspiration.

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