Learning to drink from a cup takes time. Start by substituting a cup for the bottle at one meal. Once your child has adjusted to that, do the same at another meal.

Your child probably holds the bottle herself. Don't let her walk around with it. This can turn into a habit. Sucking from a bottle off and on all day can lead to many problems. It can result in tooth decay. Or the milk might spoil, making your child sick. She might depend too much on milk or juice and not get enough other foods.

Your child may still want to be rocked with a bottle at bedtime. Try substituting water for milk. Then just offer a cup of water before rocking.

Some tips for giving up the baby bottle

• Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle. If your child must suck for comfort, offer her a pacifier. Offer a "lovey," such as a favorite stuffed toy or a blanket.
• Offer only milk, fruit juice or water in a cup to drink. Other drinks like tea, punch and soda contain caffeine and sugar. These are not good for growing children.
• Give your child plenty of hugs and kisses. By giving up the bottle, she is giving up a warm, loving ritual.

After age one, children no longer need formula. They can drink cow's milk. But make sure it's whole milk, not low-fat or skim milk. Children need milk fat for growth and energy. Serve whole milk until your child is at least two years old.

If you are worried that your child has a milk allergy, talk to your doctor about other options to provide the calcium and other nutrients she needs.

Expect a mess

At this age, children love to experiment. They will dip their fingers into apple juice and smear pudding on their tray. At the same time, they are learning to feed themselves. Milk will get spilled, and food will fall on the floor.

Accept your child's efforts. Gently confine activities to the tray of the high chair. Drape a dishtowel under the child's chin, or use a bib. Put newspaper or an old shower curtain on the floor. This will make cleanup easier.

Other tips for mealtime

• Wash your child's hands before eating. In crawling and moving around, she picks up germs everywhere. Use soap and warm water and rub her hands together briskly.
• Use dishes that will lessen frustration. Plastic dishes won't break. Shallow bowls and cups with broad bases are less likely to spill. Plates with upturned rims will help keep food in place.
• Serve small portions, just a spoonful or two. Your child wants to show her independence. Let her ask for more when she wants more.
• Watch for signs of fullness. If your child is playing with her food and no longer eating it, it's time to take it away.
• Wash your child's hands and face after eating. Change a messy shirt, if needed.