Blog
Tips and tricks to keep your toddler hydrated
Keeping your child well hydrated – especially when the temperatures rise – is essential for good health. If they become dehydrated, organs, cells and tissues fail to function as they should and this can have serious repercussions. These tips will help ensure that doesn’t happen.
- Keep topping up
According to paediatric experts at the University of Chicago, by the time your toddler becomes thirsty, they are already 3% dehydrated. That’s why it is important to ensure that they are getting enough fluid throughout the day. Make a fun ‘drinks chart’ and let your child add a sticker each time they have a cup of water – and keep a couple of sippy cups filled with water on a shelf in your fridge that your child can easily reach. If they’re heading off to play outside in the hot sun, make sure they have a cup of water 30 minutes before, and keep offering them top-ups while they’re out and about.
- Remember, food is fluid too
A lot of food has a high water content, include watermelon, cucumber, broccoli, strawberries, tomatoes and apples. Include a variety of these in your child’s diet. Keep your pantry stocked with Squish 100% Fruit and Veggie Purees – they are made using only quality fruit and veg, and are free from preservatives, colourants and flavourants. Try Squish 100% Apple, Summer Berries or Pear.
- Give water a fruity twist
This is a great trick to give water a fruity flavour. Freeze Squish 100% Fruit Juice in an ice tray – there are 6 delicious flavours to choose from, including Apple, Summer Berries, Pear + Prune, and Apple + Grape with Rooibos Extract. Squish juices are made from pressed fruit and are free from preservatives. Next time you’re going on an outing on a hot day, add a couple of fruit juice ice cubes to your child’s bottle or drinking cup along with water. They’ll have a cold, cool fruity drink to enjoy.
- Make ice lollies
What could be more delicious than a fruity lolly on a hot day? These are so simple to make – and you don’t need a mould. Simply use a sharp knife to make a slit in the top of a Squish 100% Fruit Juice box, then slip in a lolly stick. Place the box in the freezer overnight. To serve, slice the end off the juice box and slide down over stick.