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Can somebody help me with my questions about a 3 month old baby?

We have a foster child with us- he's 3 months old. I do not have any of my own children, but I have my degree in early childhood development and education. Several people have given me "advice" on how to care for this baby. I don't know if they think I'm ignorant because I don't have any children of my own, or what. But this is not my first time around babies. lol. I just wondered if anybody could help me feel better about what I currently do and what people are telling me to do. How many ounces (of formula) should he have each feeding? (I've been doing between 4-6oz) And about how many hours between feedings? (I've been doing about 4 hrs, unless he's asleep... I wait for him to wake up.) And should I be burping him between every ounce like we would a newer baby? Thanks for the help! :)

5 Answers

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  • Kate
    Lv 6
    9 years ago

    You're doing a great job - don't worry, everyone is going to have advice about how to raise a child and feel that you want to hear it. I learned quickly how to say "wow that's great advice, thanks" and sound like I mean it.

    I would follow your instincts and listen to the baby. If he/she is drinking 4-6oz and seems full afterwards, then don't attempt to give more. My mom told me to always have extra formula or food left over because then you know the baby is full. And him/her when she is hungry. Start getting into a schedule of when he/she eats and sleeps. Both of my kids took a short nap in the morning and a longer nap right after lunch.

    You can also start giving him rice cereal when you feel he needs a little more food at his meals. Start with rice and move into oatmeal or barley (unless there's a known alergy).

    Each child develops differently at his/her pace. If you have any concerns or just want a second opinion, call your county's Early Intervention department. The people that work there are awesome!

    Source(s): Bach degree in Special Education/Early Education, mother of 2
  • 9 years ago

    4-6 Oz's sounds about right.

    Recommended is about 2/12 Oz's per Lb body weight over 24 hours give or take 2-3 Oz's either side.

    EG. 10lb weight = 25Oz's.

    Possibly up to 30 if going through growth spurt - chewing hands and fingers and craving food = just feed. Burp half way through feed.

    Good luck.

  • 9 years ago

    My son is three months and he eats 3 1/2 oz every 2 hours. At night every three hours, I burp him every couple of oz.When every the child wakes up feed him and you're figure out his schedule. Good Luck!! Hope this helps :)

    Source(s): Mother of a 5 year old and 3 month old. preschool teacher
  • Pippin
    Lv 7
    9 years ago

    As much as he wants, as often as he wants. Though if he's in your care due to neglect, he might not 'demand as often as he needs (having learned that it does no good to cry....) so I would offer after 2-3 hours during the day if he isn't 'demanding.' The worst that will happen is that he doesnt' eat.

    At night he can normally go as long as he wants, though again, if he's underweight/neglected, it may not be wise to let him go very long stretches.

    He'll tell you how often he needs to be burped. If he's getting full after 1-2 ounces the might suggest that he's full of air and could stand a burp. If he keeps eating, trust that he has room in his belly for more.

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  • 9 years ago

    Do not listen to them. I have come to realize that sumtimes no advice at all is the best advice someone can give u. Anyway, i feed my 3.5 m/old 5oz every 2hrs, except at night. I burp him only when hes done. I say if hes happy, dont change ur routine. :*)

    Source(s): Proud parent
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