Why Teach This Early?
Open cup drinking develops oral motor skills better than sippy cups.
Progressive Sub-Goals
Introduction
Target: 6-10 monthsDrinks from open cup held by adult
💡 Tip: Start with tiny amounts of water in a small cup.
Developing
Target: 10-14 monthsHolds cup with both hands and drinks with help
💡 Tip: Use a small, weighted cup. Guide their hands.
Mastery
Target: 14-18 monthsDrinks from open cup independently
💡 Tip: Keep amounts small. Spills are part of learning!
Teaching Tips
- 1Skip sippy cups - they delay open cup skills
- 2Use small cups with small amounts
Global Context
Montessori environments offer open cups from 6 months.
Learning Resources
Feed Your Baby and Toddler Right: Early eating and drinking skills encourage the best development by Diane Bahr
View on AmazonRelated Skills to Explore
#2 Grasping & Reaching
Practical Life • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Reflexively grasps objects placed in hand
#7 Cup Drinking
Practical Life • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Drinks from an open cup held by caregiver
#26 Assists in Dressing
Practical Life • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Shows awareness during dressing (looks at clothes, body parts)
#29 First Steps & Walking
Health & Wellness • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Takes steps while holding onto furniture or hands
#30 First Words & Vocabulary
Leadership & Social • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Says 1-3 words with meaning (mama, dada, ball)
#31 Spoon & Fork Use
Kitchen & Food • Age 1 (12-24 months)
Holds spoon and brings to mouth (with spills)