How to Introduce a Sippy Cup with the I Like Big Cups Cup
By Bella Tunno | Buy One Feed One | Baby Products | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: Guides pratiques
A practical, step-by-step guide to introducing a first sippy cup, using the I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup, with checkpoints to avoid common mistakes.
Quick answer
Start around 6 months with a soft silicone cup like the I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup, offer a small amount of water at meals, and let your baby practice holding and sipping without pressure.
Why a simple silicone cup can make the transition easier
Many first cups have valves, straws, or multiple parts that can complicate learning. The I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup uses a simple three-piece design made entirely of food-safe silicone, which means fewer pieces to assemble and clean. That simplicity helps your baby focus on the core skill: tipping and sipping.
Because the cup is unbreakable and mold-resistant, you can feel comfortable letting your baby explore with it, even if it gets dropped or thrown. The grow-with-me design and optional handles support the shift from two-handed holding to independent drinking.
When to start and what to expect
Most babies are ready to practice with an open or sippy cup between 6 and 9 months, when they can sit upright with support and show interest in your cup. At first, they may just mouth the rim or let water dribble out. That is a normal part of learning. Your goal is familiarity, not volume.
Keep offering breast milk or formula as the main source of nutrition. Water in a sippy cup is for practice and hydration alongside meals. If your baby seems resistant, wait a week and try again without forcing it.
Step-by-step introduction plan
- 1. Check readiness signs: Look for your baby sitting upright with minimal support, showing curiosity about your cup, and able to bring objects to their mouth. Start with a few sips of water at meal times. If your baby can't sit steadily yet, wait a few weeks and practice with an open cup held by you.
- 2. Offer a small amount of water: Pour just an ounce or two of water into the cup. Too much liquid can overwhelm a beginner and make spills frustrating. Refill as needed rather than filling the cup to the top.
- 3. Model the motion: Show your baby how to tilt the cup by pretending to drink from your own cup. Then guide their hands to the cup and help them bring it to their mouth. Avoid forcing the cup into their mouth; let them lead the pace.
- 4. Use handles if needed: Attach the optional handles to the I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup if your baby has trouble gripping the smooth silicone. Remove them once they can hold the cup steadily. Handles are a temporary tool, not a permanent requirement.
- 5. Practice during meals: Offer the cup at the end of a meal when your baby is relaxed and not overly hungry. Keep sessions short—five minutes is plenty at first. Stop if your baby pushes the cup away or becomes fussy; try again next meal.
- 6. Expect spills and dribbles: Silicone cups are soft but not spill-proof. Place a bib or towel under the high chair and let your baby experiment with tipping and righting the cup. Resist the urge to wipe constantly; messy practice builds skills.
- 7. Clean thoroughly after each use: Wash all three pieces with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher, and let them air dry completely. Check for any residue or buildup regularly. A clean, dry cup prevents mold and keeps the silicone fresh.
Product facts
- I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup: Made entirely of food-safe silicone with a simple 3-piece design. Fewer parts mean easier cleaning and less frustration for both of you during early practice.
I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup - I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup: Durable, unbreakable, and mold-resistant. You can let your baby handle the cup independently without worrying about cracks or hidden buildup.
- I Like Big Cups Happy Sippy Cup: Grow-with-me design with optional handles available. Handles give extra grip for little hands still learning to tilt, then can be removed as skills improve.
