If your kid refuses to drink water, you’re definitely not alone.
The good news is, staying hydrated doesn’t have to mean forcing plain water all day. With a bit of creativity, and a few simple shifts, we can help kids stay hydrated on those busy summer on-the-go days.
Why Hydration Matters for Kids
Water accounts for somewhere between 60% to 75% of children’s body mass [1]. That’s a lot! Kids are often so busy playing that they forget to drink fluids, especially in hot weather. Proper hydration is so important because it helps support their systems on all levels from energy and focus, to digestion, temperature regulation, and activity levels.
Signs of dehydration in kids can include [1]:
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Irritability
- Dry lips or headaches
- Dark yellow urine
- Impaired focus or cognitive performance
Simple Summer Hydration Tips
Sometimes kids resist water simply because it feels boring. They’re more likely to drink when it feels fun and familiar, not forced.
A few simple tricks can help:
- Make “rainbow water” by adding sliced fruit like strawberries, oranges, or berries
- Let kids choose and even decorate their own water bottle with stickers
- Use fun reusable cups or colorful straws
- Have a few sips of water every time sunscreen goes on
- Offer hydrating snacks during story time or while watching a movie
- Keep a water bottle in the car so hydration becomes part of every outing
Lead By Example with Hydration
Don’t forget to model drinking water with your child, and sharing how it makes you feel. This modelling approach can have a positive impact with “picky eaters” too. [2]
You can also encourage independence by keeping a grab-and-go hydration station with filled water bottles in the fridge, pre-cut fruit containers, and lunchbox-friendly drinks.
Keep Summer Hydration Easy
Helping kids stay hydrated becomes a whole lot easier when we take the pressure off with a few simple and practical shifts. Want to learn more? Check out hydration: the ultimate summer guide and don't miss our list of top 10 hydrating fruits for summer!
Our SuperFruit Freezie Pops are an easy hydration option for kids made with real fruit juice, that contains natural electrolytes too.
Use our store locator to find DeeBee’s Organics near you and stock up for your next sunny outing!
