Here’s an age-by-age guide to help you choose the best milk for your little one.

Milk is an essential part of a baby’s diet, and the best type of milk for your little one depends on his age. The right choice will vary, especially as he grows from an infant to a toddler, with his milk needs evolving each year.

Under 6 Months: Breast Milk or Formula

For the first six months of life, breast milk or infant formula will be your baby’s sole source of nutrition. These provide all the fat, protein, and carbohydrates your baby needs to grow. Breast milk is especially beneficial, as it contains the perfect balance of nutrients and antibodies to support your baby’s immune system and help fight off illnesses.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After that, you can continue breastfeeding for as long as both you and your baby are comfortable.

If you choose to formula-feed, rest assured that it also offers essential nutrients and is often fortified with iron, probiotics, and vitamin D, designed to replicate breast milk as closely as possible.

What should be avoided during this stage is cow’s milk. Cow’s milk contains higher amounts of protein and minerals, which could overwhelm a baby’s sensitive digestive system. It also lacks the necessary nutrients for babies under 12 months. Likewise, alternative milks like almond, soy, rice, cashew, or oat milk are not suitable at this stage due to varying nutrient levels.

6 Months to 1 Year: Introducing Solids and Milk

At around six months, your pediatrician will likely recommend introducing solid foods, such as whole-fat cheese and Greek yogurt, into your baby’s diet. At this stage, you can also start offering your baby small sips of water using a sippy cup, straw, or open cup with meals.

However, until your baby turns one, stick with breast milk or formula as the primary milk source. His digestive system is still developing, and he needs the full spectrum of nutrients from breast milk or formula to ensure proper growth. Cow’s milk and other alternatives should not be introduced during this phase.

1 to 2 Years: Transitioning to Cow’s Milk

Once your baby turns one, you can start transitioning from formula to cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is rich in fat, protein, calcium, and vitamin D—nutrients crucial for your toddler’s growth. Most 1- and 2-year-olds should consume about 2 to 3 cups of whole milk daily, according to the AAP.

If your baby doesn’t immediately take to cow’s milk, you can blend it with formula or breast milk at first. You can also add a splash of milk to familiar foods like oatmeal, smoothies, or even mac and cheese to make the transition easier.

If your toddler refuses cow’s milk, don’t worry—whole-fat cheese and yogurt can help meet their dairy needs. It’s important to avoid flavored milks (like chocolate or strawberry) as the AAP advises that children under 2 should avoid all added sugars. Introducing flavored milk early could make the transition to plain milk more difficult later on.

Avoid plant-based milks such as almond, oat, and cashew milk. These alternatives typically lack essential nutrients like protein and fat found in cow’s milk. Goat’s milk is also not recommended for babies, as it lacks vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and vitamins C and D, which are important for growth. Moreover, it can be hard on a baby’s kidneys.

There is one exception: fortified soy milk. It can be an acceptable substitute for children with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or those in plant-based families. Soy milk is nutritionally equivalent to cow’s milk and provides the necessary nutrients for healthy development.

2 Years and Up: Transitioning to Reduced-Fat Milk

At age 2 and beyond, toddlers can switch from whole milk to reduced-fat milk, like 1% or skim milk. Most toddlers should drink 2 to 2½ cups of milk daily. Lower-fat milk helps cut calories from your child’s diet, aiding in weight management.

Flavored milks and sugary drinks should be limited or avoided, as they can contribute to excess sugar intake. Similarly, be cautious about “toddler milk” or “transitional milk.” These products often contain added sugars and empty calories, and are not the healthiest choice for your child.

While plant-based milks like almond or cashew milk may seem appealing, they often don’t provide the necessary nutrients found in cow’s milk. The only exception is soy milk, which is nutritionally equivalent to cow’s milk. If your child has a medical condition like lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, soy milk may be a suitable alternative, but always consult your pediatrician first.

Conclusion

Choosing the right milk for your baby is essential for his growth and development. From breast milk or formula in the early months to whole milk and then possibly reduced-fat milk as your child grows, each stage comes with its own set of guidelines. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice, and keep in mind that avoiding unnecessary sugars and choosing nutrient-dense options is key to supporting your toddler’s health and well-being.