#asktheexpert

we have 15 months child, she is not having milk. if we try she cry too much. only having mother feed

Question

#asktheexpert

we have 15 months child, she is not having milk. if we try she cry too much. only having mother feed

Accepted Answer

It’s quite common for toddlers to be resistant to milk or other new foods and drinks. Here are some strategies you can try to help your 15-month-old transition to drinking milk or other fluids:

### Strategies to Encourage Milk Intake:

1. **Gradual Transition:**
   - **Mix with Breast Milk**: Start by mixing a small amount of formula or cow's milk with breast milk. Gradually increase the proportion of formula or cow’s milk over time.
   - **Different Types**: Experiment with different types of milk (e.g., cow's milk, fortified plant-based milks) to see if your child has a preference.

2. **Flavor and Temperature:**
   - **Flavor Additions**: Add a little flavor to the milk, such as a splash of vanilla or a small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder, to make it more appealing.
   - **Serve Cool or Warm**: Try offering milk at different temperatures. Some children prefer milk warm, while others like it cold.

3. **Use a Sippy Cup or Straw:**
   - **Sippy Cups**: Offer milk in a sippy cup with a fun design or character that might attract your child’s interest.
   - **Straws**: Sometimes using a straw can make drinking milk more fun and engaging for a toddler.

4. **Incorporate into Foods:**
   - **Smoothies**: Make smoothies with milk and fruits. This can be a good way to introduce milk in a different form.
   - **Cooking**: Incorporate milk into recipes, such as in sauces, soups, or baked goods.

5. **Positive Reinforcement:**
   - **Praise and Encouragement**: Offer plenty of praise and encouragement when your child tries milk, even if it’s just a small sip.
   - **Model Drinking**: Drink milk in front of your child and show how much you enjoy it.

6. **Routine and Consistency:**
   - **Routine**: Establish a regular time for offering milk, such as after meals or before bed, to create a consistent routine.
   - **Stay Calm**: If your child resists, try not to stress or force it. Keep offering it in a positive and relaxed manner.

### Alternative Nutritional Sources:
- **Calcium-Rich Foods**: Ensure your child gets enough calcium and vitamin D from other sources if they’re not drinking milk. Foods like yogurt, cheese, fortified cereals, and leafy greens can be good alternatives.
- **Balanced Diet**: Provide a balanced diet with a variety of foods to ensure your child receives adequate nutrition.

### When to Seek Help:
- **Nutritional Concerns**: If your child continues to refuse milk and you’re concerned about their nutrition or growth, consult your pediatrician for personalized advice and alternatives.
- **Feeding Issues**: If the refusal of milk is accompanied by other feeding issues or behavioral concerns, a pediatric dietitian or feeding specialist might be helpful.

It can take time for toddlers to adjust to new foods and drinks, so patience and persistence are key.