Hydration
Let’s face it, life is busy. Between frenzied morning routines, working through lunch, and hectic after-school schedules—sometimes, we all forget to do the simple things, like drink enough water. It’s OK! Here are some things to keep in mind and a few tips for creating smart hydration habits for the whole family.
What to Do
Remind yourself to take water breaks throughout the day with an alarm set on your phone, slotted into your calendar, or through a water tracking app.
Why
Creating habits doesn’t just magically happen. You need to remind yourself to take action in order to set healthier activities – like drinking more water – as part of your routine.
Why Water Is Important For Kids
They have more skin in the game
Children’s water needs are proportionately higher because their bodies contain more water than the bodies of adults (65% vs 60%). Babies have the most, being born at about 78%. By one year of age, that amount drops to about 65%. Therefore, their surface-to-volume ratio is relatively higher. As a result, they can have greater water losses from the skin and can be more vulnerable to risk of dehydration.
It’s not top of mind
Half the hydration battle is reminding kids to drink up. The other half is getting them to actually follow through. (Have you ever tried reasoning with a toddler?!) Try a water chart and turn sipping into a challenge with fun rewards like stickers. Or motivate them to hydrate with bottled water designed just for kids!
They can’t stop, won’t stop
Kids are constantly on the move, between cricket practices, swimming and football training. While you may be losing your Saturday mornings to practice and game times, your kids are losing water each time they sweat, breathe or visit the restroom. The hydration rule of thumb: replenish the amount of water lost throughout the day.