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Drinking Water

You may worry that your toddler is not getting enough fluids as they may not be drinking enough water throughout the day. This is an understandable concern, as approximately half of the human body is made up of water, which is lost throughout the day through sweat, urine and breathing.

It is difficult to estimate exactly how much water your child needs to drink each day as it is influenced by many factors including the weather and how active they have been. Regardless, you can help to make water their drink of choice.

Encouraging Your Toddler To Drink Water:

  • Be a role model and let your toddler see you enjoying drinking water
  • Make sure water is easily available. If they are able to get it whenever they want it, they are more likely to drink what they need
  • Always have water on the table at snack and meal times
  • Try adding ice to their cup of water, ice cube trays come in interesting shapes which can make drinking water more fun
  • Put slices of fruit in water such as lemon or strawberries. You could even try some mint or cucumber for something different
  • Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge if your toddler prefers cold water.

When Can Babies Have Tap Water in Australia?

From the age of six months, your baby can have small cups of cooled, boiled tap water. After their first birthday, you can give your child tap water without needing to boil it.

Some Tips To Remember For Other Drinks:

  • Milk is a good source of calcium for your toddler and is an important part of their diet, however water should be the first option when they are thirsty
  • Sports drinks, coffee, tea, energy drinks are not suitable for your little one to drink
  • Giving your toddler too many high sugar drinks such as cordial or soft drinks can lead to a poor appetite, diarrhoea, weight gain and tooth decay
  • If your child is already used to sugary drinks you can reduce their intake by offering them watered-down versions until they have moved completely onto water. Remember to be patient as it takes time to make changes.

To establish a healthy lifelong habit of enjoying water, teach your child now.

If you are concerned about their water intake or consumption of sugary drinks it is always best to seek advice from your health care professional.

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