Using a Cup By Myself
Here's What To Do
1
After I'm able to drink from a cup you hold for me, let me practice drinking from a cup by myself.
2
Over time, try to decrease the amount you help me:
- First, let me grab the cup but help bring it to my mouth and tip it for me.
- Next, let me grab the cup and bring it to my mouth, but tip it for me.
- Last, let me do it all on my own.
3
Try small, short plastic cups that I can hold easily (with or without handles). Fill the cup halfway or less so there's less to spill.
4
If you'd like to use a lid, avoid cups with spout-shaped lids since they don't let me practice the right lip and tongue movements. Look for ones with a slit in the lid or a 360° trainer cup.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Make sure I'm sitting in an upright, stable position. Sit next to me and smile.
E
Engage:
- "Ava's turn! Show me how you can drink some water from this cup!"
- "Can you use two hands to pick up the cup?"
E
Encourage:
- Try to make it seem like no big deal if I spill (which I will). Use a bib and keep towels handy for easy clean up. Encourage me to try again.
- Tell me how I can do better next time, like: "Oops! You tilted the cup too far. Next time, tilt it just a little."
R
Reflect:
- Are you giving me enough opportunities to practice this skill? Choose times when you don't have to worry about spilling.
Not quite ready?
Let me continue to practice drinking from a cup you hold for me.
Ready for more?
Help me practice holding and drinking from a small cup with only one hand.
As your child masters this skill...
They will learn to drink from a cup independently and will spill less over time.