“Watering” Your Growing Child

Teach your children to acquire a taste for water, the most vital drink of all! Water is essential to good nutrition! Since our bodies are more than 50 percent water, we need to continually replenish our fluids. Hidden sources of water include milk or fruit juice, soups and stews, fruits, and vegetables. Have cool water readily-available for your child throughout the day. Keeping it in a pitcher in the refrigerator makes it seem more special, as does an attractive cup or glass and maybe some ice cubes or a twist of lemon peel. Don’t forget to offer water often during the day, especially in warmer temperatures. If a child is well hydrated, he or she is more likely to have a good appetite.