Our Top Tips for Encouraging Toddlers to Drink More Water in Summer!
As the summer heat sets in, it's important to ensure that toddlers stay properly hydrated. We all know it's important to drink water, but getting them to drink enough can sometimes be a challenge! In this article, we will explore some effective strategies to encourage toddlers to drink more water during the hot summer months.
Here are our TOP TEN tips!
Make it easily accessible: Having water easily accessible and placed repeatedly in the same spot, lets children know where to go to access their drink independently, rather than having to request it each time.
Drink more water yourself: Toddlers imitate the behaviour of adults around them. Make sure to lead by example and by drinking water yourself. This not only reinforces the significance of water but also creates a positive association with it in their minds.
Offer water in colourful drinks bottles and cups: Presenting water in appealing containers can pique a toddler's interest and make drinking water a more enjoyable experience. Colourful, spill-proof sippy cups or fun character-themed water bottles can capture their attention and entice them to take sips throughout the day. You could also offer water to them in different containers throughout the day to add variety – straws are great fun for toddlers and practising to sip out of an open top cup gives them a sense of achievement and is a great skill for them to practice.
Infused Water: Enhance the taste of plain water by infusing it with natural flavours. Add slices of fruits like lemon, orange, berries, or cucumber to a pitcher of water. The infusion gives a subtle and refreshing flavour to the water, making it more enticing for toddlers.
Make it Fun!: Transform drinking water into a game or an exciting activity. Offer rewards or praise when your toddler finishes a cup of water. Use colourful straws or ice cube moulds in fun shapes to add an element of excitement. You can even make water-drinking charts or stickers to track their progress and create a sense of accomplishment.
Create a Routine: Establishing a water-drinking routine can be helpful in ensuring regular hydration. Offer water to your toddler at regular intervals throughout the day, such as after playtime, before meals, or during outdoor activities. By making it a habit, toddlers are more likely to reach for their water without reminders.
Let them pour the water: Allow you child to fill up their own water bottle or cup, either from the tap or a bottle. This gives them that independence they crave and lets them practice their pouring skills - just have a tea towel handy for any spills!
Set reminders and use visual cues: Young children respond well to visual cues and reminders. Set timers or alarms on your phone to remind your toddler to drink water at regular intervals. Use colourful stickers or drawings near their play area or on the refrigerator as visual reminders to drink water.
Refresh their water throughout the day: Toddlers may prefer cold water during hot summer days. Ensure the water you offer is at a temperature they find comfortable. Consider using an insulated water bottle to keep the water cool for longer periods, especially when you're out and about.
Someone else's drink always taste better!: Every parent knows a toddler wants anything you’re drinking or eating, so you could pour a cup or bottle of water, drink some, and offer it to your toddler periodically, so they can try ‘mummy’s or daddy’s drink’ – yum, yum!