How Can I Get My 2 Year Old Off the Bottle?

As per the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the correct time to wean your baby from the bottle is at one-year-old. This is easier said than done: You may find that your two-year old is still stuck to the bottle. To get the child off the bottle, it is important to take the process slowly and use a combination of methods that make the bottle unattractive -- or inaccessible.

Instructions

    • 1

      Introduce your child to a cup gradually. Take him shopping and allow him to choose one. Have him use the cup as often as he wants to drink. During this period, don't try to force him to give up the bottle.

    • 2

      Substitute the cup for the bottle, when your child is comfortable. However, be prepared for some resistance, and take care you don't try to force the child into submission; It only makes the process more difficult.

    • 3

      Offer your child a choice -- a cup of milk or a bottle of water. The water bottle is not very interesting and the child will eventually decide the cup is a better option. Alternatively, try watering down the contents of the bottle, or add an unsweetened fruit juice. This makes the bottle unappealing and the cup attractive.

    • 4

      Firmly remove the bottle and refuse to budge when she makes a fuss. Don't worry about your child suffering; when she's too thirsty to bear, she will eventually take the cup.

    • 5

      Get a new plush toy or stuffed animal for your child and allow her to carry it along and spend more time playing with it. This will help to dull the pain of giving up the bottle. Whenever your child makes it through a complete day without asking for the bottle, offer her a favorite snack or activity as a reward.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • What are children names?
      Please clarify your question! Children names is a bit vague. Do you mean:* A list of popular childrens names? * The origins of childrens names? * How to choose a name for a child?* Something else entirely?Once you tell me what youre looking for, I ca
    • Understanding a Childs Dominant Hand
      The majority of children will develop a preference to use one hand over the other as they grow. They will soon be labeled as either right-handed or left-handed. Some may even be able to use both or either hands for certain tasks. This is known as
    • Toddler Activities for the Color Red
      During toddlerhood, many tots learn their colors. Parents can help their color-knowledge-lacking kiddos acquire these skills by engaging them in activities designed to aid in the learning of these hues. If your child is in the process of learning to