NEWBORN FEEDING
Objectives
The purpose of this presentation is to:1.Discuss the two main methods for
feeding the newborn infant
Baby’s First Year of Life
Growth and Development
Rapid growth and development
Opportunity to
Teach good eating habits
Develop positive feelings about food and caregivers
Most infants will triple their birth weight by 12 months
Purpose of Mealtimes
CommunicationSocializationGiving and receiving loveSharing personal valuesCelebrationPhysical growth and healthSensory explorationRelaxation, habit
Feeding Relationship
Feeding is a reciprocal relationship that depends on the abilities and characteristics of both the parent and the child.
(Ellyn Satter)
Responsibility of Caregiver
Decides the type of food (human or commercial)
Provides appropriate flow rate of milkFeed the baby promptly when hungryOffers bottle at appropriate angleMinimizes distractions during meal
Responsibility of Infant
Gives permission for nipple to enter mouth
Uses mealtime social pausesLet’s caregiver know when it’s time for
burpingStops eating when full
How Often to Breastfeed?
Nurse every 2 hours.
In the first few daysMilk is low in volumeHigh in nutrientsBaby will have 1 or 2 wet diapers a
day
How Often to Breastfeed?
After milk supply has increasedBaby should have 5 to 6 wet diapers
every day3 to 4 dirty diapers every day
How Much Formula?
Month Fluid Ounces per
Day
Feedings per Day
Fluid Ounces per Feeding
0 to1 16 – 20 oz 8 - 12 1 - 2.5 oz
1 to 2 18 – 26 oz 8 - 10 2 – 4 oz
Correct Bottle Feeding Position
Infant should be Cuddled Held in a semi-upright position during
feedingWhy?
Reduces fluid from pooling at the back of the throat and entering tubes from the middle ear.
Incorrect Bottle Feeding Position
Hazards of infant self feeding
ChokingOverfeedingInability to bond
with caregiver
Don'ts of Bottle Feeding
Do not prop the bottle (self feeding)Do not allow baby to carry bottle
aroundDo not allow the baby to keep bottle in
mouth while asleepDo not put cereal or sweet drinks
Burping
Done during and after feedingWait until baby stops drinkingHold baby in one of two positions (shoulder
or lap)Gently stroke/pat back
Why Burp?Releases stomach gas Prevents regurgitation
Infant Feeding in Emergencies
Breastfeeding is best
If Formula IS Necessary…
Ready-to-feed is THE formula of choice!
Use concentrated or powder formula only if bottled or boiled water is available.