Find Advice

Let's Play Nice

We’re glad you’re here, and we want to know what you have to say. This is your community, but please remember that there are kids and great-aunts out here, too. Look out for each other. Whatever you post, make sure it helps, encourages, and gives back to the community. For details about our content policy, click here.

My father didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it. ~Clarence Budington Kelland

Get Advice

 
previous previous  |  all  |  next next
avatarAlicia
# of Thumbs Up Received (2)

At what age should a child stop using a sipper cup?

My best friend has a 4 1/2 year old who is still using a sipper cup. This seems like a bad idea.

Question applies to ages: 2, 3, 4

reportReport

Rate Advice (1)

avatarJenny.eduguide
# of Thumbs Up Received (77)
Top 5 in: Discipline, Families and Relationships, Family Activities, Financial Aid for College, Growth and Development, Health and Wellness, Parenting Support, Parents and Schools, School Policy and Education Issues, Study Skills and Academics, Transitions and Readiness, Study Skills and Academic StrategiesTop 5 in 12 Topics
Based on the research I'm looking at, it would seem that most pediatric dentists recommend never using a sippy cup at all. Children as young as 6-months-old can learn to drink from a regular cup. I suggest practicing with water. :)

One thing the experts point out is that it isn't always the sippy cup that is to blame, but more the way it is being used. It is very important to give children equal time with a regular cup. So, you could either let your child use a sippy cup with her meals and snacks and a regular cup all other times, OR use a sippy cup for other times and a regular cup during meals and snacks. Use of a straw is also a good compromise.

One thing your friend should be concerned about is that continued use of a sippy cup can cause what is referred to as a "lazy tongue." This can produce sloppy "th" and "st" sounds. Hope this helped.
Was this helpful?    thumb up  |  thumb down
reportReport

EduGuide does not evaluate or guarantee the accuracy of any EduGuide Advice content. Click here for the Full Disclaimer. Help us improve EduGude Advice. Tell us what you think.

McAfee Secure sites help keep you safe from identity theft, credit card fraud, spyware, spam, viruses and online scams
Parents |  Students |  Professionals |  Our Cause |  Site Map |  Contact Us
Website Development by Web Ascender
Privacy Policy |  Terms of Use | © 2008 EduGuide