What Kind of Milk Can a Toddler Drink?

Key Insights

It is recommended that children 12 months and older drink dairy milk or fortified soy milk. There are two main reasons why other milks aren’t generally recommended: one is they don’t always provide as good nutrition, and the other is that added sugar or flavorings are not suitable for toddlers.

Milk can be a great source of nutrition for toddlers, but not all milks are made equally! Plant-based milks might look or taste like dairy milk, but they aren’t usually made for growing toddlers, and don’t have the same nutritional properties. Plus, many plant-based milks are sweetened, which can make an adult’s coffee taste good, but is not recommended for children.

Experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics¹, recommend that children under 5 avoid plant-based milks. For kids 12 months and older, cow’s milk is preferred—unless dietary needs suggest otherwise—because it provides important nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

Can Babies Have Almond Milk or Oat Milk?

No, children under 12 months of age should only be drinking breast milk and/or infant formula as recommended by their pediatrician. Babies with cow’s milk protein allergy may use hypoallergenic formulas as recommended by their pediatrician. After 12 months of age, almond milk is not recommended for toddlers, as it does not provide the same nutritional benefits as dairy milk or nutrient-fortified soy milk.

Why Is Milk Important for Children?

Dairy milk provides essential nutrients that support a child’s growth and development, including:

• Calcium – Strengthens bones
• High-quality protein – Promotes muscle growth and development
• Phosphorus – Supports strong bones
• Potassium – Helps maintain healthy blood pressure
• Vitamin A – Boosts the immune system
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – Converts food into energy
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – Helps turn food into energy
• Vitamin B12 – Aids in red blood cell production
• Vitamin D – (commonly added as a fortified ingredient) Promotes bone and heart health

Cow’s milk or fortified soy beverages can be part of a balanced diet, but they shouldn’t be the main focus. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans² recommend that children between 12 and 23 months consume 1⅔ to 2 cup-equivalents of dairy each day. This can include cow’s milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified soy drinks, or soy-based yogurt.

It’s important not to overdo it with cow’s milk—too much can make kids less interested in other foods they need for essential nutrients. Some experts also say that drinking too much milk can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb iron from food.

Pay attention to your child’s hunger and fullness cues, and if you have any questions about adding cow’s milk or soy beverages to their diet, talk with your child’s pediatrician.

Whole Milk Vs. Lower-Fat Milk

Whole milk and lower-fat milk are similar, except whole milk contains more fat. Healthy fats are important for young children’s growth and development. However, if your child is gaining weight quickly or has a family history of obesity, high cholesterol, or heart disease, ask your child’s doctor or nurse about the best type of milk to serve.

Raw Milk (Not Suitable for Toddlers)

Raw milk—also known as unpasteurized milk—from cows, goats, or sheep can contain harmful bacteria that may cause serious illness or even be life-threatening. To keep your child safe, avoid giving them raw or unpasteurized milk.

What Kind of Rewards, Discounts and Formula Samples Can Parents Get With Enfamil Family Beginnings^®?

With Enfamil Family Beginnings^®, parents can enjoy a variety of perks, including rewards points that can be redeemed for baby essentials, exclusive discounts on Enfamil products, and free formula samples to help find the right fit for their little one. Plus, members get access to special promotions and savings throughout the year, making it easier to stock up on what their baby needs while staying within budget.

1. Healthy drinks – healthy drinks, Healthy Kids. Healthy Drinks – Healthy Drinks, Healthy Kids. Accessed October 22, 2024. https://healthydrinkshealthykids.org/.

2. Dairy. USDA MyPlate Dairy Group – One of the Five Food Groups. Accessed October 22, 2024. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/dairy.

All information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.