The Right Water Intake for Children
Children have a higher water percentage relative to their body weight and faster metabolism than adults. This makes adequate fluid intake particularly important for them.
Recommended Intake by Age
Infants (0-6 months)
Breastfed babies generally don't need additional water -- breast milk covers their needs completely. The same applies to properly prepared formula.
Babies (7-12 months)
With the introduction of solid food: 200-400 ml of water or unsweetened tea daily. Best from a cup rather than a bottle.
Toddlers (1-3 years)
About 600-700 ml per day. Offer water with every meal and in between.
Preschoolers (4-6 years)
Around 800-900 ml daily. At this stage, children slowly develop their own drinking habits.
School-age children (7-12 years)
1,000-1,200 ml per day. Make sure your child takes a water bottle to school.
Teenagers (13-18 years)
1,300-1,500 ml daily, similar to adults. More with sports and heat.
Tips for Reluctant Drinkers
1. Colorful cups and bottles with favorite characters motivate
2. Flavor the water with fresh fruits or a squeeze of lemon
3. Be a role model: When parents drink regularly, children follow suit
4. Offer water-rich snacks: cucumber, melon, tomatoes
5. Establish drinking rituals: glass of water upon waking, before/after meals
Warning Signs in Children
Little urine, no tears when crying, dry mouth and sunken eyes are alarm signs for dehydration in children. When in doubt, see a pediatrician immediately.