BOTTLE TO CUP Cups can be used from 6 months old and bottles should be given up by 1 year old Using a bottle for too long and for drinks other than milk or water can cause: Tooth decay (bottle caries) Iron deficiency anaemia Food refusal Practical suggestions when moving children from bottle to cup: Use a cup as a toy from early on – as soon as they can hold things, give your child an empty cup to play with. Use a cup at mealtimes during weaning – when you start weaning at 6 months, introduce a cup even if very little is taken from it. Sit your child upright in one place when eating or drinking. It will be messy! Be prepared - there will be less mess if food and drink are offered at the same place. Keep the bottle out of sight when using the cup. Use the cup for both milk and water. Older children may give up their bottle for a new toy. As your baby gets older, if he or she wakes in the night, a drink may not be needed – reassure your child instead. Break the habit of drinks during the night – this can fill your child’s tummy, who will not eat well during the day Your child will learn that you give in if you don’t stick with your plan, which will make it harder next time. Poor weight gain Speech problems Childhood obesity