Kids, drink up!

Summertime is great for outside fun, but our kids are among those who are most susceptible to heat-related deaths and illnesses. Here are some simple tricks to make sure your kids are staying hydrated while they’re outside soaking up the summer fun.

When our kids are in the pool more than they’re out of it during the summer months, it can be tricky to make sure that they’re getting enough liquid inside their busy little bodies.

But how much should they be drinking in the course of a day and how can you coerce them into drinking what they need?

Although there’s no set amount of water that’s recommended for children, it’s important to provide them with enough water throughout the day and not just when they say that they’re thirsty.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends, “Before prolonged physical activity, children should be well-hydrated and should not feel thirsty. For the first hour of exercise, water alone can be used… Excessively hot and humid environments, more prolonged and strenuous exercise and copious sweating should be reasons for children to substantially increase their fluid intake.”

Dizziness and nausea are two common signs of overheating and decreased urination and a dry mouth are first signs of mild dehydration.

The best plan of attack is to prevent dehydration before it even occurs. Here are some simple ideas for staving off dehydration this summer:

Whether plain or flavored, plenty of fresh water will help keep your kids hydrated and ready for fun all summer long.

More safe summer fun

7 Ways to keep your kids safe this summer
Beware of dehydration on hot summer days
Summer skin-care safety for the entire family