Kids don’t like water? Try these tips

You’ve probably heard about how great water is and how we should all be drinking more of it. Unlike juice, soda, or sports drinks, water is free from calories and sugar, so it’s good for both the teeth and the waistline, and it helps remove toxins and otherwise support life and health. It is also less expensive and better for the environment.

Unfortunately, some people just don’t like drinking the stuff. Here are a few tips to make the most basic beverage more popular for your water-shy drinkers:

Use individualized water bottles. Reusable water bottles are not only better for the environment than disposable bottles but come in every size, color, and decorative pattern imaginable. Inexpensive vinyl stickers can be used to personalize water bottles so each family member has their own. Getting in the habit of filling them each night before bed means they are ready to come along for whatever adventure you have planned each day.

Make it fruity. Floating a slice or two of your child’s favorite fruit in their water makes them feel fancy and very slightly flavors water. This is a great option for kids who are transitioning off juice because it make water seem special and adds a very slight sweetness. The same is true when you make fun ice cube shapes and add it to your child’s drink. Ice cube molds are readily available and children can help “make” the ice for their drinks.

Try sparkling water. Adults who traditionally prefer soda to water may want to try a mildly flavored soda water or sparkling water. Choose one without artificial sweeteners that is calorie and sugar free. The bubbles make you feel like you are drinking soda, but the beverage is much better for your overall health. As children want what adults have, sparkling water is something the whole family can enjoy without added sugar or calories.

Eliminating soda and juice from the home entirely encourages the whole family to choose water. When juice is available, then restricting it becomes yet another parenting battle. Keep it out and children quickly learn that juice is not an option when at home.

Remember, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend any juice for children under the age of one and no more than four ounces per day for children from age 1 to 3.