How do I choose a good training cup (also known as sippy cup)?
As you shift from having your child on the bottle or nursing to a training cup, be aware of: what kind of training cup you choose, what goes into the cup, how frequently your child sips on it, and not allowing your child to carry it around. The best training cup for your child is one without a valve. The no-spill cups include a valve beneath the spout which do not allow your child to sip (they make your child suck the liquid, just like a baby bottle). A useful training cup will have a snap-on or screw-on lid with a spout. A useful cup may also have two handles. Do not let your child constantly sip liquids containing sugar (milk, juices, soda, etc) because they encourage development of decay or cavities. Offer these liquids only at mealtimes. Saliva production increases during a meal and helps neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from the mouth. If your child is thirsty between meals then offer water. Do not let your child carry the training cup around, or get into the ha
