Now that your baby is sitting comfortably, possibly crawling, and starting solids, it’s time to introduce a new skill—drinking from an open cup. While it may seem like a small step, this milestone has lasting benefits for your baby’s oral development and overall growth. Let’s explore why teaching your baby to drink from an open cup is so important and how you can help them master this skill.
The Importance of Drinking from an Open Cup:
An open cup is more than just a way to drink—it’s a tool for development. Here’s why:
- Supports Oral Development: Drinking from an open cup helps build the muscles needed for speech and chewing.
- Promotes Healthy Teeth: Using an open cup reduces the risk of tooth decay by preventing liquids from pooling around the upper front teeth.
- Encourages Fine Motor Skills: Learning to hold and drink from an open cup enhances your baby’s coordination and fine motor abilities.
When to Start:
You can introduce an open cup as early as six months, though most babies will be able to use it (with some help) between 9-12 months. By 16-17 months, many toddlers can drink from an open cup with minimal spills.
Tips for Introducing an Open Cup:
- Start Small: Add a small amount of breastmilk, formula, or water to the cup. This minimizes spills and makes it easier for your baby to learn.
- Guide Their Hands: Gently place your hands over your baby’s and help them bring the cup to their mouth slowly.
- Model the Behavior: Show your baby how it’s done by drinking from an open cup yourself. Make it fun by exaggerating the “AAH” sound after your sip!
