Month 12 · 3 notes
Your pediatrician will likely recommend switching from formula or breast milk to whole milk around now. Go slow with the transition. If your baby is walking, expect some tumbles and head bumps. Keep sharp corners padded. The transition from bottle to cup takes time and patience, so don't expect it to happen overnight.
You made it through the first year. That's not a small thing. Whatever this year threw at you, you handled it, and your baby is proof.
The AAP recommends weaning from bottles by 12-15 months. Prolonged bottle use can affect dental development and increase risk of tooth decay.
Start offering milk in a sippy cup or open cup. Gradually reduce bottle feedings, eliminating the bedtime bottle last.
At 12 months, baby can transition to whole cow's milk. However, too much milk can displace solid food intake and lead to iron deficiency.
Limit whole milk to 16-24 oz per day. Ensure baby is eating a variety of iron-rich foods. Continue offering water throughout the day.
New walkers fall frequently and can hit their heads on hard surfaces, furniture corners, and sharp edges.
Pad sharp furniture corners. Keep floors clear of tripping hazards. Monitor closely but allow reasonable exploration. Know the signs of concussion.