Parenting expert Dr. William Sears advises that there is no set age at which a child will begin drinking from a cup, but generally the time comes once baby's head, neck and back muscles are strong enough that she can easily sit up alone. Consider introducing a cup to your baby well in advance of when you'd like her to use it exclusively. Learning how to use a cup is a long process -- about six months! -- so it's a good idea to start early. Your child's first sippy cup should have handles on both sides and a one-way valve in th spout. The handles will help her hold, balance and aim the cup; the spout will prevent spills. To avoid the growth of bacteria or mold, rinse the cup thoroughly after each use and clean the valves with a small bottle brush. Not every toddler will need to use a sippy cup. Some will transition directly from the breast (or bottle) to a regular cup. The choice is yours. Visit the She Knows Message Boards for more about sippy cups.