Why the switch matters

Moving from bottles to cups is more than a milestone. It supports healthier mouths and stronger motor skills. Open and straw cups encourage lip closure, tongue retraction, and jaw stability, which helps with chewing and later speech clarity. Cup drinking also slows the flow, so little ones learn to self-regulate intake and tune in to hunger and fullness. Fewer lingering sugars on teeth is another win for oral health.

Quick fact: The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages introducing a cup around 6 months and weaning from bottles by 12 to 18 months to protect teeth and growth (American Academy of Pediatrics).

Getting started, step by step

1. Choose beginner-friendly cups. Try a small open cup or a straw cup with a slow flow. Soft spout or 360 cups are fine as a bridge, but they still act a bit like bottles.
2. Time it right. Offer the cup when your child is alert and a little hungry, not over-tired. Start with water or familiar milk in small amounts.
3. Model and mirror. Drink together. Use a clear cup so your child sees the liquid level. A simple “sip, tip, down” cue can guide the sequence.
4. Set up stable posture. Feet supported, hips and knees at right angles, cup brought to the child instead of the child reaching far forward.
5. Work on tiny sips. Aim for brief, gentle tilts. If coughing happens, lower the volume and slow the flow.
6. Phase out gradually. Replace one bottle at a time, ideally a midday feed first. Save the bedtime bottle for last.
7. Make practice playful. Sticker-mark a “sip line,” blow through straws, or try smoothie “taste tests” for thicker, slower practice.
8. Expect messes. Start with an ounce or two. Wipes nearby keep the mood calm and confident.

When extra support helps

Some children need more time because of sensory sensitivities, reflux history, or delayed oral-motor skills. Occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists can assess cup type, flow rate, posture, and swallow coordination, then map out a plan that fits your child’s routine. Guidance often includes straw progression, breath pacing, and safe swallow strategies that keep practice positive.

Remember: small, calm sips add up. Consistency beats speed, and confidence grows with every successful try.