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How do you make sure children — especially toddlers — drink enough? We’re in the middle of an unusual heat wave here in the UK, and keeping little ones hydrated has become a constant concern. Adults can remember to sip throughout the day, but a wilful toddler is another matter entirely.
I’d love to hear your ideas for getting more fluids into children. What tricks or tools work at your house? Below are our practical, everyday Costello tips for preventing dehydration, especially when kids are outside playing on childrens trampolines:
Offer small portions and change them often
Smaller cups mean drinks stay cooler and fresher, and they’re less daunting for a toddler. It’s extra washing up, but the trade-off is that the child is more likely to accept and finish their drink.
Crushed ice is a winner
We’ve been buying bags of ice and crushing them in a bag or wrapped in a tea towel. The texture and chill make ordinary juice feel like an exotic treat to the children, so they drink more willingly.
Vary the flavours
Keeping a selection of different juice flavours and mixing them up prevents boredom. A little variety goes a long way in encouraging regular drinking.
Straws help
Straws can be a surprisingly effective incentive. One evening my daughter refused to drink until she had several straws in her cup — once they were in, she gulped down two cups. We try to use paper or reusable straws when possible to reduce plastic waste, but we’re also using up what we already have.
Freeze drinks and snacks
Freeze drinks for school the night before so they’re defrosted but still cool by lunchtime. Squeezy yoghurts and smoothies freeze well and act like ice lollies, keeping lunchboxes cold and tempting kids to consume something they might otherwise ignore.
Let them chew ice cubes
Some children enjoy crunching on large ice cubes, which keeps them happy and hydrated. It’s not my favourite habit, but it works and keeps them occupied for a while.
Keep a stock of inexpensive ice-lollies
Budget shop ice-lollies are great for quick cooling and hydration when you can’t freeze more at home. They’re affordable and convenient; at our local store they’re often a real bargain.
What tips do you use? I hope the warm weather continues but please take care in the heat. Judging by how much water Tara has drunk from the paddling pool today, she should be fine for a while!
Ideas for fancy child-friendly drinks:
Non-Alcoholic Peach Bellini (a fun, fruity option that mimics an adult treat without alcohol)
