The amount of water each child needs might vary from day-to-day based on how active she is, the weather, or the amount of fluids she gets from other beverages like milk or foods like soups and applesauce. It also depends on age:
- 0-6 Months: No water
- 6-12 Months: Once solid foods are introduced around 6 months, you can offer a few sips of plain water at mealtimes. It helps babies develop cup-drinking skills and learn to like the taste of water, which takes time.
- 1-3 Years: Toddlers should drink 1 to 4 cups of water daily to get enough fluids.
- 4-5 Years: Preschoolers should drink 1.5-5 cups of water daily to get enough fluids.
Avoid waters with added sugar or low-calorie sweeteners. If you want to add a little flavor and fun to water, try adding fruit.
Cheers!
Learn more at www.healthydrinkshealthykids.org.