Feeding FAQ: 12-18 months – Milk Feeding Problems

My toddler has suddenly taken a real dislike to his milk.

My toddler has suddenly taken a real dislike to his milk and is now taking a lot less than 350ml (12oz) a day. Some nights he flatly refuses his bedtime drink. I’m worried he’s not getting the right nutrition – what should I do?

Babies and young toddlers are not capable of distinguishing the difference between hunger and thirst, so it would be wise to make sure that your toddler is not eating too much solid food at mealtimes, which would have a knock-on effect on the amount of milk he is drinking. For several days, keep a note of all the food, milk and other fluids that he consumes over each 24-hour period and the time he consumes them. If he is eating in excess of the guidelines for his age, try cutting back on the solids he consumes and see if this helps increase the milk he will take in.

When toddlers refuse milk at this age it is sometimes because they have drunk too much water or juice in the afternoon, which then affects their bedtime bottle. Try to offer your child a mid-afternoon drink of water only no later than 3pm, and offer only a couple of ounces of fluids with his tea.

If your toddler still refuses his milk, offer him a yoghurt at both breakfast and lunch and include a serving of cheese in his daily diet. Also try to include lots of sauces and milk puddings in his diet, and milk-shake drinks made with fruit or fromage frais yoghurt. This will help boost his intake and ensure he gets that right balance of vitamins and minerals.