Water is one of the main constituents of a child’s body and in order to stay healthy a regular intake of liquid is essential. Water is one of the most important dietary elements for growing kids and teens. It’s essential that the parents need to develop healthy hydrations habits in kids right from the time when they are young. It has been seen that children get fussy when they are asked to drink water. But in hot and humid summers, when they lose water through sweat besides urination, intake of water is pivotal because it protects the children from getting dehydrated. Children are always at a greater risk of dehydration as compared to adults because irrespective of their size, children have the tendency of sweating more. And, the worst part is children don’t understand the feeling of being thirsty. That’s why we have to inculcate the habit of drinking a glass of water after urination.
The amount of water a child needs depends on his/her age, size and level of activity. Pediatricians across the globe recommend at least 4-6 glasses of water for children under 8 years of age, whereas, a minimum of 6-8 glasses is recommended for kids above 8-year. There are certain criteria when kids need more hydration. Like, if your child is playing sports or is very active they will need extra fluid. Even during summers, a child’s water intake should be increased to protect him/her from dehydration.
Indicators to understand if the child is well-hydrated
Luckily, there are parameters to understand whether your child is going through dehydration if they exhibit following symptoms:
Frequent headache
Poor concentration
Cracked lips
Constipation
Dark Urine
Lethargy
Inculcating water-drinking habit in kids
It’s one of the toughest habits to introduce it to your kids. Parents need to be patient and consistent in their efforts to make their kids learn the habit. There are some kids, who don’t like water and for them, parents can add a slice of lemon and orange in it. It will add a flavor to the water, which the kid will like to drink. Sometimes, giving them water in a colorful bottle or glass also excite them to drink water. So, let them choose their own bottle or glass. Even the parents can become the role model. Make sure that you are also drinking water when you’re asking your kids to do the same. There are other supplements of water, which your kids might like, but plain water is the best to stay away from dehydration in summers. Water contains no extra energy and can quench your thirst.
Water should be the kids’ go to drink
Parents often offer their kids aerated drinks or sugar-laden juices to quench their thirst, but, both could be detrimental to your kids’ health in the long run. And, increased sugar intake is a big factor in the rising rates of childhood and adult obesity. Sugary sodas are even worse and should always be avoided. These drinks don’t quench your thirst easily, leaving the kids’ take more of it. Water and skimmed milk are the absolutely best thirst quenchers. Raise your child in such a way that water should be their first drink of choice. In this way, your child will slowly develop the taste of clear and healthy water. This is one of the lifelong habits a parent can instill in their children.
The author is a Consultant Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Noida
