How Much Water Should a Toddler Drink in a Day?

However, keep in mind that the water requirement may vary based on the weather conditions. In hotter months, your child may require more water to keep them hydrated. Also, if your toddler is very active, they may need more water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.

What are the Types of Drinks You Can Give to Your Toddler?

While water is the best drink for toddlers, you can also offer other drinks to ensure they stay hydrated. Here are some options:

Milk

Whole milk is a great option for toddlers as it contains calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients that help with bone development.

Fruit Juices

You can offer your toddler 100% fruit juice in moderation. Make sure to read the label and choose juices without added sugar. Best is to make it at home. And, please note that toddlers of 1-3 years of age should not have more than 4 ounces of juice in a day.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and can help your toddler stay hydrated.

Smoothies

Smoothies made with fresh fruits and vegetables can be a fun and delicious way to keep your toddler hydrated.

Tips to Encourage Your Toddler to Drink Water

Sometimes, getting toddlers to drink water can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help encourage them to drink more water-

Make it fun

Use colorful cups or straws to make drinking water more exciting for your toddler.

Set an example

Drink water in front of your toddler to set a good example. ‘Toddler sees, toddler do’ so when they see you drinking water, they are very likely to follow suit.

Add some flavor

You can add a few slices of cucumber or lemon to make the water more appealing to your child.

Offer water-rich foods

Offer fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, and oranges, as a snack.

Do’s and Don’ts When Getting Toddlers Into Drinking Water

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when getting your toddler into the habit of drinking water-

Do’s

• Offer water at regular intervals throughout the day.
• Encourage your toddler to drink water during and after physical activity.
• Make water easily accessible to your child.

Don’ts

• Avoid giving sugary drinks such as soda, sports drinks, or packaged juices to your toddler.
• Don’t force your child to drink water, instead, encourage them gently.
• Don’t offer water right before mealtime as it may fill up your child’s stomach and make them less hungry.

It’s essential to ensure that your toddler stays hydrated throughout the day. Encourage your child to drink water regularly and offer other drinks in moderation. With the tips mentioned in this article, you can make drinking water a fun and enjoyable habit for your toddler. If you have any concerns about your child’s hydration, it’s always best to consult with their pediatrician.

FAQ’s

1. How do I Know if my Toddler is Drinking Enough Water?

You can tell if your toddler is drinking enough water by checking the color and frequency of their urine. If your child is drinking enough water, their urine should be pale yellow or clear. Also, if your child is producing 6-8 wet diapers a day, it’s a sign that they are well hydrated.

2. Why is my Toddler Thirsty All The Time?

It’s normal for toddlers to be thirsty, especially when they are active or in warm weather conditions. However, if your toddler is excessively thirsty, it could be a sign of a medical condition such as diabetes. If you’re concerned, it’s best to consult your child’s pediatrician.

3. How Much Water Should a 2-year-old Drink in a Day?

A 2-year-old should drink approximately 4 cups or 32 ounces of water a day, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, keep in mind that the water requirement may vary based on your child’s weight, activity level, and weather conditions.