There is no strict need to give cow milk at all if your toddler eats a balanced diet. If you choose to offer it, the best time is with a meal or snack — not right before a meal, as it fills their tummy and reduces appetite for solids. Try offering a small glass with afternoon snack or post dinner. Many parents find that offering milk just before bed helps when weaning off night nursing. Every child is different, so experiment with timing.