Experts from the Indonesian Paediatric Society emphasise the importance of establishing a predictable feeding schedule for babies aged 6 to 23 months to encourage healthy eating habits and support growth and development.
Many parents worry when a baby between 6 and 23 months eats very little or refuses food altogether. One practical answer, according to the Indonesian Paediatric Society, is to build a clear feeding routine early, so that mealtimes become predictable and the child can start to recognise hunger and fullness cues.
From around six months, babies begin complementary feeding, or MPASI, alongside breast milk or formula. The Indonesian Paediatric Society says a typical daily pattern is three main meals, one or two snacks and breast milk or formula two to three times. The group also advises that, between meals, children should have only water, so they arrive at the table properly hungry.
Specialists quoted by the parenting site theAsianparent note that the gap between feeds does not need to be fixed at exactly two hours. As children grow, their stomach capacity increases and digestion takes longer, so the interval may stretch to 2.5 or even three hours. Alodokter adds that parents should also watch for signs that a baby is ready for solids, such as sitting upright and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.
Feeding guidance from the Indonesian Paediatric Society and Alodokter stresses that mealtimes should be calm, limited to about 30 minutes and free from distractions such as television, toys or games. Parents are encouraged not to force a child to eat, not to use food as a reward and not to keep feeding once the child has begun to play, become upset or scatter food. Small portions and encouragement to feed themselves are also recommended.
A regular schedule can do more than organise the day. It can help children predict when food will come, reduce dependence on food for comfort and support healthier responses to appetite. For children who eat only small amounts, a steady routine may make it easier for them to be hungry enough to accept nutritious meals and snacks. That is why feeding experts say structure, patience and responsive feeding matter as much as what is on the plate.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
