Bottles, binkies, and sippy cups cause preventable injuries to young children, according to a new study published in Pediatrics.
Researchers found that two-thirds of the injuries occurred among one-year-olds. Of course, that’s the age where children are just learning to stand and walk and are unsteady on their feet.
The study analyzed data gathered by the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System for children under age three who were treated in an emergency department for an injury caused by a bottle, pacifier, or sippy cup.
Most of the injuries were cuts and bruises to the mouth and face, largely the result of children falling on the items.
Because of the high number of injuries for the age group, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children not use these products beyond the intended ages, and that parents help to transition young children to a cup around age one.
Allowing a young child to toddle around with a bottle, sippy cup or pacifier can create an attachment that is hard to break. Some studies show that prolonged bottle feeding results in excessive milk intake, and whenever milk or juice pools in the mouth for long periods of time, there’s a risk for tooth decay.
Besides, toddlers need to use both hands for exploration and balancing when they are learning to navigate on two feet.
Three tips on how to help babies and toddlers develop healthy eating habits
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