Start to practice with an open cup.
Learning how to drink from an open cup is an important skill. It is recommended that your child stops drinking from a bottle by the age of 15 months and no later than 18 months.
Breast or chestfeeding Tip
You do not have to stop offering human milk to your child to offer an open cup. You can continue to offer human milk to your child until you are both ready to stop.
If you are offering an open cup, it can take time and patience. It may take your child weeks or even months to use an open cup. If you need help, contact your local WIC office.
The Benefits
Learning hand-eye skills.
Support independence.
Strengthens the mouth and neck muscles.
Protecting teeth from cavities.
The Cup
Choose a cup that is small enough for them to hold or choose one that has handles.
Use a cup with a wide base that will not tip easily.
Allow your child to pick out their open cup.
Offer a cup with bright colors to make the cup exciting.
The Experience
Add a small amount of liquid. 1 to 2 ounces is enough.
Drink from the same type of cup you are offering to show your child how to use it.
Gently show them how to lift the cup to their mouth.
The Ideas
Messes will happen as your child learns. Invite them to help you clean up their spills. By 18 months old, your child can understand simple tasks and directions.
Affirm your child when they use their open cup successfully. Offer lots of hugs and kisses.
You may want to keep the cup out of their reach at mealtimes until you are comfortable they will not knock it over. Offer the cup to her in-between bites.