How Much Milk Does My Toddler Need?

Milk is an important part of many children’s diets. Milk is packed with calcium, protein, and essential vitamins that support healthy growth and development. However, too much milk can sometimes lead to poor appetite, iron deficiency, or picky eating habits. So, how much milk does your toddler actually need?

Milk Intake by Age

Understanding your child’s recommended milk intake can help ensure they get enough nutrients without overdoing it. The right amount of milk depends on your toddler’s age, appetite, and overall diet. As there are many factors to take into account, the following is a guide. It is always best to speak to a Paediatric Dietitian to understand their needs and requirements.

1 to 2 years old

Between the ages of 12 and 24 months, toddlers should drink around 350-500ml of full fat or dairy-free milk per day. At this stage, milk is still an important source of calcium, protein, and fat, which support brain development and bone strength.

However, the focus should be on offering a variety of solid foods. Encourage your toddler to eat a mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins alongside milk.

Tip: Offer milk in a cup instead of a bottle to promote healthy oral development and reduce the risk of tooth decay.

2 to 3 years old

From age two, your child can gradually switch to low-fat milk, depending on their growth and energy needs. The recommended amount remains around 350 to a maximum of 500ml per day. 

At this age, toddlers get more of their nutrients from solid foods, so milk should complement their meals - not replace them. Too much milk can fill them up, leading to reduced appetite for iron-rich foods such as meat, lentils, and leafy greens.

Over 3 years old

Once your child is over three, milk becomes just one part of a balanced diet. About 250-400ml per day is plenty for most children who eat a variety of foods.

Encourage other sources of calcium like yoghurt, cheese, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks if your family prefers dairy alternatives. 

What if my child is refusing milk?

Milk refusal is something that can happen, especially when they have moved onto 3 meals and snacks per day. This isn’t something to worry about. Instead, shift your focus to other calcium rich foods. Aim for at least 3 portions of dairy or dairy-free alternatives per day. 1 Portion is equal to = 100g yoghurt or 20g cheese.

Think about adding milk to porridge or cereal, offering fruit with yoghurt, cheese as a snack or grated into meals, making cottage cheese pancakes or cheesy muffins.

Encourage other sources of calcium: leafy greens, fish, fortified cereals, bread and tofu.

Tips for Milk Consumption

A balanced approach helps your child get the benefits of milk without it taking away from other nutrients. Here are some dietitian-approved tips to keep milk intake healthy and stress-free. 

1. Offer milk at specific times

Instead of letting your child sip milk throughout the day, serve it after meals or snacks. Grazing on milk all day can reduce their appetite for solid foods.

2. Limit sugary milk drinks

Avoid flavoured milks or milkshakes that contain added sugars. These can lead to tooth decay and reduce your child’s appetite for nutritious meals. If your toddler enjoys flavour, try blending milk with fruit for a naturally sweet smoothie. 

3. Balance milk with iron-rich foods

High milk intake can interfere with iron absorption and contribute to iron deficiency anaemia, especially if milk replaces iron-rich foods. Focus on offering iron-rich foods like eggs, lentils, meat, or fortified cereals to keep your child’s diet balanced. 

4. Choose the right type of milk

• Whole milk is recommended for most toddlers under 2 years old, as they need healthy fats for brain development.

• Low-fat or semi-skimmed milk can be introduced after age 2, if your child is growing well and eating a varied diet.

• Plant-based milks (like soy or oat milk) can be used if fortified with calcium and vitamin D - but check the label, as not all are suitable for toddlers.

5. Encourage water as the main drink

Milk should complement, not replace, water. Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day and offer milk at meal or snack times. 

When to Seek Professional Advice

If you’re unsure whether your child is getting too much or too little milk, or if you’re navigating allergies, lactose intolerance, or a dairy-free diet, it’s best to consult a registered child dietitian. 

At Tots 2 Teens, we provide individualised nutrition counselling for children and families, helping you make confident choices that support your child’s growth and long-term health.

Find the Right Balance with Tots 2 Teens

Every child is unique, and their nutritional needs are too. Whether your toddler loves milk a little too much or avoids it completely, our dietitian can help you build a balanced plan that supports healthy eating and happy mealtimes. 

Book a consultation today and get expert guidance tailored to your family’s needs.