Milk

[Titchyboomboom]

What would you do if a child you were looking after was drinking way too much milk for their age? 16 months and on 4 9oz bottles during the day and one or 2 when they go home... and eats practically nothing...

It depends on

a) is the child healthy/thriving?

and

b) is it because his parents are unsure about weaning and need some help and advice or is it a decision they've made based on their parenting 'philosophy'?

She seems fine, very lively, bright and alert - but she doesn't eat when she is here, which is daytime all week. Maybe just a little breakfast and picks at some snacks. I don't think it is a parenting philisophy, and I don't think they realise that she could become deficient in some things

I would suggest at that age to cut out bottles at yours and just have one cup of milk during the day
The milk will fill the child up but they need different foods and textures now before they become fussy eaters

I agree mopbucket! Exactly my concern... is it an issue I need to raise with the parents do you think ... I am concerned removing bottles without asking would be un professional

I'd get together some information on healthy diet for toddlers, and say that you've been given all this bumph by your local childminding team or whatever and that after reading it you'd realised that she was drinking considerably more milk than was recommended, and thought they might like to have a read through too. It might be that they don't know that she should have a more varied diet by now, or that they have reasons for giving her so much milk. If it's a medical reason then it's something that they should make you aware of anyway.

As a CM (and the parent of a toddler) I'd think it was something that needs to be raised - ultimately it involves her welfare (if she's malnourished because she's not getting a varied diet) and as such, you're required to safeguard that.

Thank you... you have confirmed what I was thinking... good idea... I happen to have been given a weaning booklet at the children's centre the other day and it advises 2 bottles / 560ml max, so I will discuss I think.
It is exactly the safeguarding issue I was concerned about as this diet could lead to anemia, vitamin deficiencies and ultimately weight loss as cow's milk has nothing in it.... appreciate your input
Thanks :)

Can you suggest that you cut down slowly/gradually wean her off, rather than going cold turkey? Then the parents might find it easier to agree with you?

Yes, I think gradual is the answer. I am going to ensure I have lots of healthy snacks around to offer her as well to encourage her to fill up on food, and hopefully the natural progression will be the milk dropping off.