I’m constantly drinking water throughout the day. It keeps up my energy levels, prevents me from overeating and helps me to take bathroom breaks so I’m not sitting behind my desk for too long.
When it comes to my kids drinking enough water, however, it often takes a lot of persuasion. They tell me, “I’m not thirsty,” even after having a meal. Or they’ll take a quick sip of water to appease me so they can go back to playing with their dolls.
Getting your kids to drink more water and stay hydrated is more important than you may realize.
When your kids are mildly dehydrated it can make them feel tired, lack focus and make them struggle with easy tasks, which could explain those non-stop meltdown.
Studies show brain tissue can even temporarily shrink without enough water in the body. And even if your kids eat healthy, they could become constipated.
To get your kids to drink more water, here are 5 things I’ve discovered can help.
Buy a new cup
I usually buy my kids glass or stainless steel water bottles because they don’t have chemicals and last a long time. But kids love anything new so when they both of them received a plastic sports bottle at a birthday party recently, they became obsessed. They brought that cheap black and orange bottle everywhere they went and drank up like they were in the Saraha desert.
Use a straw
I don’t know what it is about straws, but kids just love them. Go to Target, pick up a package of colorful straws and watch in amazement by how much water your kid can down.
Add flavor
Forget adding juice or an artificial sweetener to their water—both have too much sugar. Instead, put a slice of lemon, lime, cucumber or a few strawberries in their bottle and it may help your kid drink more water.
Use fruit cubes
Instead of regular ice cubes, try freezing fruit with some water in ice cube trays and add it your kid’s cup.
Tucker them out
My daughters and I often go to the high school track on the weekends and run a few laps together. It’s a great way for them to get exercise, burn off some energy and work up a sweat. Whether it’s the park, an indoor play space or your backyard, get your kids moving and thirsty for some water.
What are some ways you get your kids to drink more?
