Introducing the sippy cup to a baby that has been breastfeeding exclusively is a challenge to all mothers. Babies do not want to let go of the spongy breast for the bottle. However, at some point, you have to resume work hence the need to begin making some transitions with your baby. So, how do you introduce a sippy cup to a breastfed baby?
Take each day at a time
How hard is it for you to break a habit? Then, why do you expect your child to forget the breast immediately?
It’s going to be a difficult period for both of you, so you have to be patient, especially with the little one. Moreover, babies mature at a different speed, so one child can adapt to the cup faster than another.
It is also recommended that you transition to a cup from six months and aim to have your baby off the bottle by their first birthday. Start off by offering drinking water, and as your baby becomes more comfortable, you can provide other fluids.
If you have been bottle-feeding, comfort sucking on a bottle can also become a habit that’s hard to break.
Have a wide variety of cups
You will find a variety of feeding cups for breastfed babies in the market. Choose various sizes and shapes.
- Cups with lids can reduce spillages
- Cups with built-up or angled handles can help your child to grip more easily.
- Cups that have straws can that can help your baby to drink without needing to lift the cup.
- Choose cups that are bright and colorful
- Avoid cups with ‘valves’ that prevent spillage as your baby still has to suck this rather than sip.
Begin with the one that resembles your breast. Then move to the two-handle, the straw cup, and finally the one-handle one.
However, you cannot bombard the baby with all these cups at once. Choose your timing wisely to avoid traumatizing the child.
Motivate the baby
Celebrate each milestone with song and dance, and words of encouragement. How you introduce a sippy cup to a breastfed baby can either uplift or destroy their esteem.
It is not a time to punish and shout at your child. Therefore, motivate the young one with cheers, songs, and applause before and after drinking from the cup.
Is a sippy cup necessary?
You might feel like giving up if your baby does not respond well to the cup. However, you need to know the importance of introducing this milestone, particularly before the first birthday.
- It helps your baby learn cup drinking skills as it requires him to sip rather than suck.
- Develops the muscles of the jaw, cheeks, lips, and tongue
- It helps reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Conclusion
Introducing a sippy cup to a breastfed baby is easier if you have older children in the house since the little one will enjoy mimicking how they take their food. With a bit of patience and motivation, both you and the baby will enjoy this milestone.
