You want the best nutrition for your growing child. So, when should they start to drink milk? This age-old question pops up in parenting groups daily, so we're here to share when and how to introduce milk to toddlers.

The CDC recommends that children are at least 12 months old before you offer them cows’ milk. The primary source of nutrition for children under the age of one is breast milk or infant formula. Around months 4-6 children should begin to test small portions of solid foods but breast milk and formula must still their primary sources of nutrition. Giving a child fluid cows’ milk before 12 months of age could put them at risk for serious health problems. Your baby’s digestive system is delicate and their kidneys can’t handle the protein and minerals in milk. Though most infant formula is cows’ milk, it is especially formulated for an infant’s nutritional needs.

After their first birthday, children can have milk-containing products like yogurt, fluid cows’ milk, and cheese. If you choose to introduce cows' milk with a first birthday cake, choose plain, unflavored milk like a2 Milk® Whole. With only natural A2 protein, it’s easier on digestion and may reduce discomfort in some people. It also provides calcium and zinc which are important for development and growth during these formative toddler years.

Always chat with your pediatrician before making nutritional changes for your child, including switching from baby formula or breast milk to cows' milk. Your doctor can also suggest safe milk alternatives if there is a history of dairy allergies in your family or your baby was previously on a hypoallergenic formula

If you and your baby are both ready to make the switch, start practicing with cows' milk in a bottle or no-spill training cup. You may want to warm the milk to make it feel familiar or mix it at a 1:1 ratio with breast milk or formula, gradually increasing the ratio of cows' milk over several days.

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends offering cows' milk for one bottle a day while still breastfeeding or preparing bottled formula. Gradually increase the amount of cows' milk served each week until you've fully transitioned. Each child is unique, so there is no set timeline for the weaning process.

Once your baby has transitioned to cows’ milk, the best milk is whole-fat, unflavored, and unsweetened that doesn’t upset the tummy. Young children need fats to nourish their bodies and brains—but not the added sugar.  Our a2 Milk® is proven to be easier on digestion for some people and our customer’s say it tastes better too.

Looking for healthy recipes made with whole foods to share with your family? Try something sweet like this Strawberry boba tea or something savory like this Sheetpan pizza with zucchini. No matter what you choose, a2 Milk® is here to provide your family with better protein, naturally. Find a2 Milk® at your local grocery store today.