How to wean baby off bottle at 12 months

While feeding your baby promotes bonding, it also takes a lot of time. Some parents long for the day when their little one can hold their own bottles, effectively feeding themselves without assistance.

Psychological effects of bottle-feeding too long

But when does that typically happen?

To reach the milestone of being able to hold their own bottle, a baby needs to develop the necessary fine motor skills, coordination, and strength. Keep reading to learn more about when most babies can hold their own bottles and sippy cups.

When Babies Start Holding Their Own Bottle

On average, babies can hold their own bottles between 6 and 10 months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

2 year old still on bottle at night

2 year old still on bottle at night

2 year old still drinking milk from bottle

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Effects of bottle feeding too long

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However, all babies are different and some may take a little longer, while others may be capable even sooner.

Holding a bottle requires a wide range of skills, including cognitive development, fine motor control, coordination, and strength in the core and upper body, and it takes time to develop those abilities.

If your baby can sit up by themselves (usually sometime between months 4 and 7) an

when should kids get off the bottle

when should my baby get off the bottle