A mother of a 3-year-old is worried because the child still insists on a bottle at nap and bedtime. What should the nurse suggest?

A 3-year-old child may still have some attachment to bottles, particularly at nap and bedtime, as they provide comfort. While concern for the child's dependency on a bottle is valid, suggesting that the mother allow the bottle only if it contains water is a balanced approach. This recommendation considers the child's need for comfort while addressing potential dental concerns associated with milk or sugary drinks that can lead to tooth decay if consumed frequently before sleep.

Using water in the bottle means that the child can continue to experience the soothing routine of having a bottle without contributing to any negative health issues. Gradually, this could help ease the child away from the bottle habit altogether, supporting a transition towards more age-appropriate practices while ensuring the child's emotional comfort is respected. Over time, the mother can work towards removing the bottle altogether, but initially allowing water provides a practical compromise.