#asktheexpert my boy is 18 months old ... suddenly ge is drinking less milk and sometimes refusing it also...
plz suggest me something

Question

Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon for toddlers around 18 months to start drinking less milk or sometimes refuse it altogether. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including developmental changes, teething, or simply a growing interest in solid foods. Here’s how you can handle the situation:

### 1. **Offer Milk in Different Ways**:
   - **Change the Cup or Bottle**: Sometimes, offering milk in a different cup or bottle can renew interest. If he's been using a bottle, try transitioning to a sippy cup or even a regular cup with a straw.
   - **Flavor the Milk**: You can try adding a small amount of natural flavoring like a spoon of fruit puree or a pinch of cinnamon to make the milk more appealing.

### 2. **Incorporate Dairy into His Diet**:
   - **Yogurt**: Offer plain or fruit-flavored yogurt. It’s a good source of calcium and protein.
   - **Cheese**: Include cheese in his meals or snacks. You can offer cheese slices, cubes, or mix shredded cheese into his food.
   - **Smoothies**: Blend milk with fruits to make smoothies. This can be an enjoyable way for him to consume milk along with the added nutrition of fruits.

### 3. **Ensure Nutritional Balance**:
   - **Solid Foods**: If he’s eating more solid foods, ensure they are balanced and include other sources of calcium like green leafy vegetables, tofu, or fortified cereals.
   - **Calcium-Rich Foods**: Include calcium-fortified foods and beverages in his diet, such as orange juice or oatmeal.

### 4. **Don't Force It**:
   - Forcing him to drink milk can create negative associations. Offer milk during meals or snacks and let him decide if he wants it. Sometimes, toddlers are simply asserting their independence.

### 5. **Monitor Fluid Intake**:
   - Ensure he’s staying hydrated with water, especially if he's drinking less milk. You can offer other liquids like diluted fruit juice (in moderation) to keep him hydrated.

### 6. **Teething Consideration**:
   - If teething is the issue, cold foods like chilled yogurt or a teething ring may soothe his gums and make him more comfortable with drinking milk.

### 7. **Consult Your Pediatrician**:
   - If the refusal continues for a prolonged period or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician. They can check for any underlying issues and suggest alternatives if needed.

### Conclusion:
It's normal for an 18-month-old to go through phases where they drink less milk. Offering milk in different ways, incorporating dairy into his diet, and ensuring he gets enough nutrition from other sources can help. If you have concerns about his overall nutrition or if the refusal continues, a visit to the pediatrician may provide additional guidance.

#asktheexpert my boy is 18 months old ... suddenly ge is drinking less milk and sometimes refusing it also... plz suggest me something