Tips to prevent dehydration in children

Do you know that kids sweat less than grown-ups? Children need to drink plenty of water so they can stay hydrated, especially if they are outside in hot, humid weather. It is your responsibility to make sure they consume enough fluids. It is especially important in warmer months when kids don't notice how much they are sweating or understand the need for hydration. Here caregivers from Day-care Palos Verdes Estates, CA are sharing some essential tips to prevent dehydration in children.

Drink water:

Drinking water frequently is the easiest and healthy way for kids to stay hydrated naturally. Normal water does not contain any calorie or energy boosters like sodas or sports drinks do. It is always advisable not to add any sweeteners or flavors to water.

Drinking any fluid:

It may not be always water - many fruits and vegetables have very high water content. You can offer them watermelon, strawberries, broccoli, celery, cucumbers, and other watery fruits and vegetables for snacks.

Make sipping fun:

You can let your kids pick out their own drinking cups or travel bottles in their favoritecolors or decorated with their favorite cartoon or superhero characters. You can also buy a set of funny straws and ice cube trays that make ice in fun shapes.

Adding flavors to water:

Caregivers in Day-care Palos Verdes Estates, CA, has observed that most of the time kids don't like drinking normal water. So, adding some flavors and colors to their water will encourage them to drink more water. You can freeze berries or cranberries into ice cubes or infuse water with fresh fruits, herbs or vegetables like lemon, mint, watermelon or Orange.

Making popsicles:

Making popsicles at home is a great option if you want to give your kids a fluid reach treat. Just make a puree of any fruit or use sugarless fruit juice and pour it into freezer molds.

Carrying water bottle:

Whenever kids are going out, encourage them to carry their water bottle and create a reminder system for drinking water frequently.

More than everything else, you can talk to your kids about the importance of being hydrated and developing some healthy habits.