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A very common tool in the lives of moms, dads and caregivers is the transition cup. You have surely seen one! The transition from the mother's bottle or breast to the cup is very important for the baby. That's why this cup has this name!
Although common, this issue involves some doubts. It can be difficult to decide which model to use, which occasion to use, and even whether the transition cup is worth using. Thinking of helping you in this mission, we talked to the pediatric dentist Mariana Oliveira Andrade Brandão (CRO-MG 42180) to clarify these and other questions!
What is transition cup and its types
The transition cup is used to help the child move from the mother's bottle or breast to the cup. They are usually plastic, with a hard or soft spout in a lid with handles to hold.
According to pediatric dentist Mariana, when babies reach about 5 or 6 months, they are already able to make the transition and start using a normal glass to drink liquids. She does not advise using the transition cup and recommends going straight to the cup without a lid.
Even so, many people use the lid cup for its practicality. The lid on the transition cup prevents the drink from falling and wetting the baby. There are several models and each has a function. Check below a list with the types:
Also read: Cloth Diaper or Disposable Diaper: Which is the Best Option?
- Anti-laying: It helps the child to avoid spillage situations and allows the child to start the transition to the glass without accidentally turning the liquid over. As its name implies, its main advantage is not leaking.
- With silicone nozzle: The softer nipple is good for smaller babies. An advantage is that the nozzle can be purchased separately and replaced.
- With straw: This cup has no spout, has a straw and the baby needs to suck the liquid. Some children are not used to sucking and may have difficulty. Another disadvantage is cleaning the inside of the straw which, if done improperly, can create mold.
- With valve: In this type you can choose between anti-flow or free flow, always suitable for the baby's skills and needs. Just remove the valve and the liquid flows continuously through the nozzle. The advantage of flow control prevents the flow of large volumes of drink at one go. The downside is forgetting the free valve and leaks happen.
- 360º glass: This cup model has no spout and this allows babies 6 months of age and older to simulate drinking from an open cup without spills. The advantage is that it comes with only three main parts and can be washed in the dishwasher.
- Cup with handle: The handle allows the child to hold the cup more safely and easily. Often the straps are ergonomic, designed especially for baby's little hands.
Even with so many types of transition cups, your baby may have difficulty adjusting. It is important to remember that each child has their own way of being and their time in developing skills.
Transitional Cup FAQ
There are several models of transition cup to choose from and with this different indications. As it is a transitional phase, having doubts is more than normal. We interviewed the dentist Mariana Oliveira Andrade Brandão (CRO-MG 42180) specialist in pediatric dentistry to help with some of these issues. Read on:
What is the transition cup for? It is a cup that helps to help the child to move the bottle or breast to the cup safely and controlled.
What are the advantages? Support for motor and cognitive development, promotion of new habits and feeling of confidence.
Are there any problems or contraindications? I do not indicate the transition cup. I advise going straight to the ordinary cup, or from the bottle to the cup if appropriate, in child size and rounded edges. If the child has difficulties, use the transition cup for water only. As disadvantages, the child would have to have more than one glass for each type of drink and the spouts may stick.
Also read: Is baby walker recommended? Pediatrician clarifies doubts
At what age is it recommended to use transition cup? By the time your child is about 6 months old, she is already able to use a normal cup without a lid.
What care should be taken with hygiene? The same as the responsible is already used to nipple and bottle. Sterilize with boiling water and dry well before storing to prevent mold.
When to use transition cup and when to use baby bottle? If for some practical reason the caregiver wants to use the transition cup, it is still better than using the bottle. And ideally use the hard nozzle to avoid suction force.
Also according to the pediatric dentist, we must respect the rhythm of each child. It may take a little longer for her to move the glass to her mouth correctly. The parent, caregiver has to assess the ability of the child at the time of development.
Transition Cup Experiences and Reviews
Find out how the transition cup was used, the advantages and disadvantages. We separated 3 videos with reports of mothers and interviews. Watch!
Read also: Enjoy: when and how to enjoy your baby without difficulty
Talk with speech therapist about transition glasses
In this video, the speech therapist points out that babies should be exclusively breastfed until 6 months. Also check out other tips on how and why to use a glass.
Baby layette consultant talks about which cup is ideal
Here, the consultant talks about the various cup models and which one is right for your child. The cups are introduced when the child no longer breastfeeds or in the bottle.
Review of Transition Cup Templates
Not always the first cup you offer to the child is the cup that she will adapt. In this video, look at some transition cup models that have been tested and approved.
Use these tips to help you decide whether or not to use a transition cup and also when choosing a model and when to start.
Always remember to be patient. Learning to use a cup is a skill that can take a while for your child to learn. If you still have questions about this, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist to assist with this phase!
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