#asktheexpert my 1.4 years old son is still dependent on milk and doesn’t want to eat. Please suggest ways to move him to solids totally

A. It's common for toddlers to prefer milk over solids, but transitioning your 1.4-year-old son to eat more solids is important for his growth and development. Here are some tips to gradually shift his dependence from milk to a balanced diet: Steps to Transition from Milk to Solids: Limit Milk Intake: Toddlers need about 400-500 ml (13-17 oz) of milk daily. Excess milk can reduce hunger for solids. Gradually decrease milk quantity and avoid offering it close to mealtimes. Set a Meal Routine: Offer three meals and two snacks at consistent times daily. Offer milk only after meals or as a bedtime drink. Introduce Variety: Start with foods that are easy to eat and similar in texture to what he enjoys, such as mashed potatoes, porridge, or soft rice. Gradually introduce a variety of textures and flavors like finger foods, soft fruits (banana, mango), boiled vegetables, or small pieces of chapati. Make Mealtime Fun: Use colorful plates, spoons, or fun shapes to make food appealing. Allow him to explore food with his hands to encourage interest. Lead by Example: Eat together as a family. Seeing you eat solids may encourage him to imitate. Offer Healthy Alternatives: Replace some milk feeds with nutrient-rich solids: Breakfast: Oatmeal, dosa, or idli with ghee. Lunch/Dinner: Rice with dal, soft roti with curd, or khichdi. Snacks: Fruit slices, cheese, or boiled sweet potato. Use milk as part of meals, like making rice kheer, smoothies, or custards. Encourage Self-Feeding: Offer small pieces of food he can pick up and eat himself, like soft breadsticks, steamed vegetables, or cooked pasta. Be Patient but Firm: Toddlers often reject new foods initially. Keep offering the same food multiple times without forcing him. Distract Less: Avoid distractions like TV or mobile phones during meals. Encourage focus on eating. If He Refuses Solids: Check Hunger Cues: Ensure he’s hungry before offering food. Don’t Give In Too Quickly: If he refuses solids, don’t immediately offer milk. Wait and try again later. Mix Foods: Add small amounts of solids like mashed veggies or cereals into his milk initially, then gradually increase the quantity. When to See a Doctor: If your child consistently refuses solids, has poor weight gain, or shows signs of nutritional deficiency, consult a pediatrician or nutritionist for advice. Transitioning takes time, but consistency and patience will help him develop healthy eating habits.