3 Hydration Tips for Kids You Can Try Right Now

It’s no secret that staying hydrated is essential for the health and wellness of our children’s bodies. Without adequate water intake, we risk possible dehydration which can have devastating effects if left untreated. Especially in the summer months when families just want to be outside, it’s important to keep an eye on how much water your child is drinking to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially heat stroke. It is widely recommended that children and adults alike need to drink fluids all day, every day.  We know it can be a challenge to get our kids (and even ourselves) to drink enough water but hopefully the tips below will be helpful!  
 
Signs of dehydration:
 
What do we need to look for when it comes to symptoms of dehydration? Let’s start with babies.  Dry skin, rapid breathing, fewer wet diapers and tearless crying are all symptoms of possible dehydration. Other symptoms for children a bit older through adulthood could include feeling thirsty, dizzy, or lightheaded with dry mouth, lips and eyes. Dehydration can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, eating foods with high water content and taking plenty of breaks from strenuous physical activities. 
 
So how much water does your child need? 
 
Let’s start with Newborns, who shouldn’t be offered any water since they’re getting hydration from nursing or formula feedings. When it comes to children 6 months old to 11 months old up to 8 ounces is recommend (although less is encouraged by The American Academy of Pediatrics). At 12 months of age your child can drink water whenever they’re thirsty. As your child grows older, their water intake will depend on their weight and what your pediatrician encourages. 
 
How to Get Kids to Drink More Water;
 
Strategically leave water in places they’ll be around

Have a few sippy cups (or water bottles if you have older kids) laying around the house in places your kids tend to play a lot. If water is handy, chances are high they’ll grab what’s closest to sip on. 

Eat your water! Choose Water Foods:

Choosing foods with high water content is a great way to stay hydrated during the summer. Watermelon, raspberries, cucumber, oranges, and strawberries are just a couple kid approved fruits we’d recommend! Getting creative and making popsicles with fruit inside is another great way to get kids to eat their water. This Mama has 5 Dairy Free Kid Friendly Popsicle Recipes the whole family will enjoy!

 
Keep water extra cold! 

Keeping water extra cold can make drinking it much more enjoyable and refreshing. Consider refrigerating a pitcher or water to refill cups and bottles with or invest in some fun-shaped ice cube trays to make drinking water more fun! https://amzn.to/3a8bXSr
 
Silly Straws

Who doesn’t love a fun silly straw? Watching the water glide up through the loops of a straw is fun to watch even for adults! Have your child choose their favorite from a collection of silly straws and watch in amazement at how quickly they sip their water down! Check out these silly straws your kids can wear on their face: https://amzn.to/3OFZW5S 

Reusable Water Bottles
Pick up a fun water bottle with a spill-proof lid that your child will love! Sometimes a water bottle with a sticker of their name on it can really make ANY drink inside special because the bottle is JUST for them. 

Parents love these fun water bottle options!

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Be a good role model!
Our kids watch every move we make. Choosing water over other beverages while out at restaurant or choosing it as your drink of choice every day will undoubtably set a good example. For older children, make a game of it and see who can finish their water bottle first within the day! The winner gets a high five and another bottle of water (the rules are up to you!)
 
 
We hope these tips offer some inspiration on how to get the kids to stay hydrated this summer. Do you have a tip you’d like to share? Leave a comment below! Happy sipping!