Drinking from a Small Glass

Safety

Glass is used only with an adult sitting at the table and only where licensing allows; check the glass for chips before every use and remove it at once if chipped or broken.
Keep water to a small amount: the AAP suggests small amounts of water from about 6 months, with breast milk or formula still the main drink until 12 months.
No juice before 12 months (AAP).
Do not let the child walk or run while drinking from a glass.

Where US guidance differs

Some state licensing rules restrict glass in infant rooms. Montessori sources use a real small glass from about 6 months so the child sees the water and learns that glass breaks. This work uses a small glass only where licensing allows and with an adult sitting at the table; otherwise it uses a small open cup of clear plastic or stainless steel, not a sippy cup.

Presentation

1
At the weaning table, pour a small amount of water into the glass in front of the infant so they see it.
2
Say: 'Here is some water in your glass.' Hold the glass in front of the infant and wait for them to look at it or reach for it.
3
Bring the rim to the infant's lower lip and tip it slowly until the water touches their lip. Wait for them to sip; do not pour into the mouth. The first sip is the point of interest.
4
Lower the glass and set it on the table. Let the infant watch the water settle.
5
Offer again. Place the infant's hands on either side of the glass with your hands over theirs, and tip together.
6
As the infant's grip grows, keep your hands near but not on the glass while they drink.
7
Show the infant how to set the glass down on the table. Wipe drips with the cloth, naming what you do.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

The infant lifts the glass from the table, drinks, and sets it down without help
The infant drinks with the glass a little fuller
The infant asks for more water by pointing to the glass or pitcher
The toddler pours their own water (see Pouring a Drink from a Small Pitcher)

Control of error

The glass is clear, so the infant sees the water move; tipping too far spills water on the chin and table.

Ready to move on when the child…

Sips from an open glass without choking or coughing
Holds the glass with both hands and drinks
Sets the glass down on the table instead of dropping it
Drinks from the glass at every meal instead of a bottle

Guide note

The AAP recommends starting an open cup at about 6 months, which matches Montessori practice. Sippy cups are not used because the child does not learn to control the flow.