How to Make Toddlers Drink Water
Water is essential to toddlers' well-being. It regulates their temperature, carries oxygen and nutrients to cells, promotes digestive health, and fluoride in water helps strengthens teeth. A lack of water can lead to dehydration and heat-related conditions such as heat stroke, which is potentially fatal. Getting toddlers to drink more water is a daily battle for many parents. Toddlers often prefer juice and milk over water. To get your toddler to drink more water, some creativity is required.
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Things You'll Need
- Pitcher
- Water bottles
- Cups
- Lemon slices
- Ice cubes
- Straws
- Fruit and vegetables
Instructions
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Place a pitcher of water in the fridge within hands' reach. Cold water often tastes better and toddlers might drink it more easily than lukewarm water. Use water bottles with sport tops as an alternative.
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Serve water in colorful cups with ice cubes, a slice of lemon and a fancy straw. Make it seem as if you are serving a special drink.
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Provide fruit and vegetables that contain a lot of water. About 25 percent of your toddler's fluids needs can come from solid food. Have your toddler eat foods, such as watermelon, grapes, cucumbers, broccoli and carrots.
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Set the right example and drink water in front of your toddler. He might be eager to copy your behavior.
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Mix one part of juice with two parts of water and have your toddler drink it. Over time, gradually lessen the amount of juice you use, to wean your child off the sugary taste. Eventually she might start enjoying water as is.
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References
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