{"id":"6c3b321476bbd3be4a33d53274099f93","slug":"how-do-i-get-my-20-month-old-to-drink-milk-after-switching-from-formula","question":"How do I get my 20-month-old to drink milk after switching from formula?","answer":"The transition from formula to cow's milk or toddler milk is pretty common around this age, and some resistance is normal — your toddler has spent their whole life drinking formula, so a different taste and texture can feel strange to them.\n\nIf you're considering toddler milk specifically, know that it's marketed as a bridge between formula and regular milk for children ages 9 to 36 months. The research suggests these drinks are often ultraprocessed and may contain added sugars, so it's worth checking the label carefully and comparing the ingredient list to plain cow's milk. An \"added sugar\" warning label does help parents spot the sugar content, so that's one thing to look for.\n\nThe most straightforward approach is usually to mix formula and cow's milk gradually — start with mostly formula and slowly increase the ratio of milk over a week or two. You can also try offering it at different temperatures (some toddlers prefer it warm) or in a new cup to signal the change. If they're eating a balanced diet with other sources of calcium and protein, a little extra patience during the transition is fine.\n\nYour toddler will likely come around as they get used to the new taste.","sources":"[{\"pmid\":\"37352928\",\"title\":\"Toddler Milk Perceptions and Responses to Front-of-Package Claims and Product Warnings: A Qualitative Study of Caregivers of Toddlers.\",\"journal\":\"Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics\",\"year\":\"2023\",\"url\":\"https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37352928/\",\"score\":0.76}]","thread_json":null,"topic":"toddler-nutrition","view_count":0,"created_at":"2026-09-05T00:01:34.574Z"}