Blast From the Past (1935 Infant Care)

NOTE: NOT current information. It is interesting to see how advice has changed over the years.


Then: parents were advised to feed on a strict schedule every 4 hours and not to feed the baby between those scheduled feedings. It was believed that these habits must be instilled from birth for eating and sleeping. Is it any wonder breastfeeding became less effective with such a regimen? Oh, they also said weaning should begin at 7 months.

Now: we recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and according to baby's hunger cues. We no longer recommend "on demand" which implies only feeding when baby is famished. Hunger cues include rooting, sucking on things, smacking or licking lips, fussing, fidgeting, crying etc. Weaning will ideally not be until 12 months of age or as long after as desired, even though solid foods supplement the diet from around 6 months. For more fun, click the photo.