Mothers of Preschoolers

Healthy Eating

Hydration (having enough fluids)

With their busy lives, it’s easy for children to not drink enough fluids. In fact, most people do not drink enough fluids! Did you know that by the time you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated?

Your children will stay hydrated if they start the day with fluids and continue drinking during the day. If they take a water bottle to school with them, they can drink water or other fluid as often as they have a chance to do so.

Fluids do not always have to be in the form of water. They can come from juicy fruits (like watermelon, grapes, and oranges), from vegetables, rice, pasta, milk, and yogourt.
When children are well hydrated, they will have more energy and will perform better in sports and in school.

If your child is doing a physical activity that lasts for 60 minutes or less, then water is the best choice for proper hydration. If the activity is one that lasts beyond 60 minutes, then you can choose a sports drink. This will provide the child with the energy needed to perform for a longer time at the level needed.

Buy a sports drink with sodium, potassium, and a 6 to 8% carbohydrate content, such as Gatorade or Powerade.
Make your own sports drink (see below). Be aware that fruit juices, fruit drinks, and soft drinks can cause stomach upset when used instead of a sports drink. Use this recipe.

Homemade Sports Drink

¼ cup fruit juice (any kind is okay, just make sure it is real juice not a fruit drink)

¼ teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons sugar

3 ¾ cups of water

Mix all the ingredients together and store in the fridge. Easy!!