27 Jun 4 Tips to Keep Your Kids Hydrated During the Summer
Warm weather is (finally) here, which means it is time for kids to get out and start enjoying some fun in the sun. However, while summer typically means no school and more fun, it also means that kids are at more risk than ever of getting dehydrated. When kids are outdoors, running around and playing in the heat, they can easily get dehydrated. This can lead to illness, fainting and other serious issues. However, sometimes, keeping kids hydrated is much more difficult than it seems.
Most kids aren’t going to keep track of how much water they are drinking or understand the risks that can come with dehydration. In fact, by the time most children are thirsty, they are already starting to get dehydrated. This is why it is up to you as their parent to step in and make sure they are staying hydrated. Here are four easy tips to help get you started.
- Time it out to make certain your child is drinking enough during the summer months. Make sure that your child drinks 30 minutes or so before an activity, and about every 20 minutes during an activity when it is hot out. Water is always best, and while sugary drinks should be avoided, if your child is engaging in prolonged outdoor activities such as sports or an outdoor summer camp, sports drinks with electrolytes are Ok if water is not available.
- Make water more fun. Many younger kids just don’t like to drink water, mostly because it is “boring.” This is a big obstacle for many parents, but one that is easier than it seems to overcome. Let kids pick out their own fun drinking cups, or give them a twisty, fun straw to drink out of. If they don’t like the “flavor” of water, infuse it with fresh fruit, lemon, orange or mint to make water seem more interesting. Even some fun ice cubes can help make it less boring!
- Fruits and vegetables can help kids stay hydrated as well. While drinking water is still the best approach to helping kids stay hydrated, there are other sources of water for little ones as well. Fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, broccoli, strawberries and cucumbers all have a high amount of water in them. Make sure that your kids are getting around five servings of fruits and veggies a day, to help them stay hydrated.
- Make a water drinking reminder system. Be creative, but come up with a reminder system that works for you and your family. Maybe your kids put a sticker on a chart every time they drink water, or they have a number of cups or glasses they need to drink by the end of the day. If you are out and about with your kids, consider using a timer. Having a set system can go a long way in making sure your little ones are staying healthy and hydrated all day long.
If you want to know more about the importance of keeping your kids hydrated or about the signs of dehydration contact Continuum Pediatrics at 817-617-8600 today to schedule an appointment.