Introducing liquids other than breast milk or formula can feel like a new hurdle for parents of 6- to 9-month-olds. While the goal is to help your baby master new motor skills, it is perfectly normal for the process to be messy!

Open Cups vs. Sippy Cups

Many experts recommend skipping traditional sippy cups. While they are convenient, they don't help your baby develop the necessary oral-motor skills for mature sipping. Instead, start with an open cup or a straw cup. An open cup—even a small steel tumbler or shot glass—is excellent for building muscle control in the lips and tongue. Don't be discouraged if your little one spits, plays with the water, or blows bubbles; this is all part of the sensory learning process.

Making It a Habit

Consistency is key. Offer a small amount of water in an open cup during meal times. Even if they don’t swallow a drop, simply mimicking your movements—watching you drink and trying to copy the motion—is a major milestone. Keep it low-pressure and keep it up; it can take several months for a baby to get comfortable with the skill. If your baby is prone to throwing cups, keep the water portion small and model the behavior for them.

When to Start

While some babies start exploring open cups as early as 6 months, straw cups are often easier to master around 8 months. Remember, at these ages, solids and liquids are primarily about exploration rather than immediate hydration, as breast milk or formula will still be their main source of nutrition.