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My 3yr old won`t give up his night or afternoon bottle

Hi Leanne my 3yr old wont give up his nite or afternoon bottle, I know for his teeths sake this is very bad have you got a failsafe idea to help me out here, like throw it out in front of him n say well thats it. Ive tried the big boy approach n doesnt seem to work?

Leann...
Answer: Hi There,
Good on you for perservering with it, its so much easier said than done these things, I do understand. Below are some tips from Janet Cater on the topic, also her latest newsletter has some more info on it also.

Get onto cups
Some children may refuse to give up the bottle because they enjoy the “comfort” it gives them. However at the developmentally appropriate time the parent must assist the child to let go of the bottle. They will forget about the bottle in a matter of days.

Tips for weaning your child from the bottle:-

  • Reduce the number of bottles gradually over a few weeks.
  • At the same time decrease the volume of milk in each bottle
  • When children are down to only one small bottle a day they gradually become more interested in eating more solids.
  • During this period give the bottle after the meal so you do not spoil the child’s appetite
  • Completely dispose of the bottle or hide it well away from sight
  • Tell your child the bottle has gone
  • Tell your child they no longer need a bottle and that the bottle is only for little children.
  • Allow your child to see you throw the bottle away (or if you feel that gives a message of wastefulness then give it away to someone who may need a spare bottle).
  • Remain firm and know you are doing the right thing by your child in doing this.
Source: Janet B Cater co -author of “Why Wont My Child Listen” www.janetbcater.com

I hope it helps, stand strong and expect a fussy but remind yourself it will pass.

All the best,
Leanne

Answered: 01 Sep 2008

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