10 Creative Ways to Get Your Kids to Drink Water

As tough as it is, getting your kids to drink water throughout the day is a necessity as we lose it through breathing, sweating and digestion. Kids are easily attracted to sweets and other sugary beverages. However, there are some things you can do to make it easier for them to stay hydrated and energized.

1. Use frozen fruit in place of ice cubes. You can also freeze berries in ice cubes which makes drinking water fun.
2. Infuse your water with fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, lemons, strawberries and more.
3. Buy your children their own special drinking cup. This way your kid will want to drink from it.
4. Buy smaller water bottles that are made for children. Teach them how to use a water dispenser to refill their bottles.
5. Start a reward system for drinking their water throughout the day. Give your child a sticker or other small gift for drinking is or her water. You can also do a funny dance that they laugh at, which can bring more joy to your family.
6. Be a role model. The more your children see you being healthy, the more they’ll want to be. Drink water with them and they’ll likely do the same.
7. Carry a water bottle with you. Keep one for your child in the car or in their backpack. Take it on trips and keep it in your fridge at home.
8. Freeze water bottles for ice-cold water all day long, especially during the hot summer months.
9. Only buy water-based drinks. Avoid buying sugar-sweetened beverages altogether. This includes Gatorade and Powerade. When you don’t have sugary drinks in the home, there is zero chance for kids to drink it.
10. Choose water instead of other beverages during meals or eating out. This will help you save money and the extra calories. Habit is key here.

How much water should my child drink?

The amount a child or teen each day varies based on age, weight and gender. A general rule of thumb is that a kid should drink at least six to eight cups of water per day.

Water is the start to a good diet. Your child or teen should also eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables every day, since fruit and vegetables have a higher water content than solid foods.