12mo won't drink any milk

[bbem]

My 12 month old DD is still having 3 breastfeeds a day (only just reduced from 5 feeds 2 weeks ago!) and I am trying to wean her completely. For the last couple of months have been trying to get her to have formula from a bottle or a cup as I work 2 nights a week. She flat out refuses from me. My DH can mostly get her to have about 50 mls when I am at work but won't have it from him when I am home(even when I'm out of sight and earshot). Have tried cow's milk but also refuses that. Expressed breast milk is not an option as I have never been able to express with either of my 2 children. She will have water quite happily from a cup (sipper or open cup) or her brother's drink bottles. She's very light for her height and age (only just 8kg and tall) so already has yoghurt and custard and cheese every day to try and put on some weight.
Any suggestions for getting her to drink any kind of milk, or am I worrying too much.

[the pero clinic]

Dear Bbem,

Your toddler sounds like she is still getting used to the idea of weaning – but has already had practice at saying ‘no’ to breast milk alternatives.

Try not to be too worried at this point. It is great that she is drinking water from cups and drink bottles, and eating dairy products every day. She may continue to refuse formula or cow’s milk while she still has access to breastfeeds as she isn’t hungry enough to need it, or she may simply be in the pattern of refusing it – almost like a daily game or ritual!

While you continue to reduce your breastfeeds at your own pace, increase your daughter’s intake of other dairy foods, ensure she continues to drink lots of water, and add extra calories (such as cream and butter) to her foods if you are concerned about her weight. Using milk instead of food, as a way of gaining weight, should be avoided. If you have ongoing concerns about your daughter’s weight or growth, see your doctor or a paediatric dietitian.

It is worthwhile continuing to offer your daughter cow’s milk or formula (preferably in a cup or drink bottle) on a regular basis, but avoid making a big deal out of it. If she refuses, simply take it away again – do not enter into negotiations, battles, bribery, trickery or performing for one parent instead of the other. If she doesn’t get a reaction, the ‘fun’ in refusing probably won’t last.

the pero clinic