Encourage your children to eat water-rich foods
At home and in the lunchbox, encourage your child to eat water-rich foods like grapes, watermelon, cucumbers, carrots, and tomatoes.
Float slices of fruit (such as lemons or limes) in a jug of water
Or be creative with strawberries, clementine segments and any other colourful fruit.
Let your children drink what they want – within reason
Water is always going to be the healthiest drink for both children and adults, but if plain water makes them turn their noses up, give your children a little more freedom. Milk, natural juice, and flavoured water all work. However, to help them avoid a caffeine or sugar addiction early in life; never let them try fizzy drinks (or worse, take one to school). Hydrated children are happy children.
Give your child a straw.
It may sound strange, but we actually drink more when we’re drinking through a straw. With a straw, kids will be encouraged to drink more fluids, and they may enjoy the fun factor of having a straw in their favourite colour.
Use ice cube trays that make fun shapes and use those ice cubes in your child’s water
Nothing quite like the fascination of watching an ice cube shape melt while drinking your water and should the ice cube drop or fall, no mess apart from a little puddle!
Take your child to pick out a new, special cup
Young children are big on ‘ownership’, especially when there are siblings, so once they have their own individual drinking cup, this will encourage them to use their cup for drinking from.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun ways to encourage children to drink more water?
To make drinking water more appealing to children, try using colourful straws or ice cubes in fun shapes. Kids are more likely to drink more when they are entertained by the process.
You can also involve them in choosing their own special cup. Ownership of a personal drinking cup can motivate them to use it more frequently. Additionally, floating slices of fruit like lemons or strawberries in their water can add a splash of colour and flavour, making hydration a more enjoyable experience.
How can I keep my child hydrated when they’re unwell?
When a child is unwell, especially with vomiting or diarrhoea, it’s crucial to offer small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions. These help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
Incorporate water-rich foods like watermelon or cucumbers into their diet to boost hydration. If your child is reluctant to drink, try offering drinks through a straw or in a fun cup to encourage them. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, as these can exacerbate dehydration.
What are creative ways to make water more exciting for kids?
Adding slices of colourful fruits such as oranges or berries to water can make it visually appealing and slightly flavoured, encouraging kids to drink more. You can also make homemade fruit popsicles as a hydrating treat.
Another method is to use novelty ice cube trays that create fun shapes. Watching these melt can be fascinating for children, making the act of drinking water more engaging. Allowing kids to decorate their own water bottles can also add a personal touch that encourages regular use.
How much water should a four-year-old drink daily?
A four-year-old typically needs about 1.2 litres of fluids a day, which includes water, milk, and other drinks. It’s important to spread this intake throughout the day to maintain consistent hydration.
Encouraging regular sips of water, especially during playtime or after physical activity, can help meet this requirement. Including water-rich foods like grapes and tomatoes in their diet can also contribute to their daily fluid intake, ensuring they stay well-hydrated.
What are the best drinks for keeping children hydrated?
Water is the best drink for keeping children hydrated as it is calorie-free and essential for bodily functions. Milk and natural fruit juices can also contribute to hydration but should be given in moderation due to their sugar content.
Flavoured water without added sugars can be a good alternative for children who dislike plain water. It’s important to avoid fizzy drinks and those with high caffeine content, as they can lead to dehydration. Offering a variety of healthy drinks can help maintain interest and encourage regular fluid intake.
