Eat on a schedule. Basically two meals with (very) limited snacking and it you’re on a diet with this, then reduced calories besides.
Eating hours are eating times. Fasting hours are for not eating. You can take fluids during fasting time…that’s where people are telling you to drink water and black coffee.
If you wake up at 12.45 am with a cranky baby, do not drink coffee. That’s not what is meant. You can drink water though. You aren’t restricted to nothing.
The huge hiccup here is that food replaces sleep for parents of small children. So you’re working on a high hurdle. Be patient with yourself.
Your brain is happiest when you sleep and wake at the same times every day. Eat when hungry but definitely try to eat something within 30 mins of waking up, this will start your metabolism for the day and keep your energy stores filled. IF works best for most people if you cut food out around your dinner time.