How much water should children drink in the summer?

Summer is the time when children often participate in outdoor activities, playing and exercising more than usual. However, high temperatures and constant sweating also cause children's bodies to dehydrate quickly. According to pediatric experts, children are at a higher risk of dehydration than adults because their thermoregulation mechanisms are not yet fully developed and their bodies contain a higher percentage of water.

How should children drink water in hot weather?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children's water needs vary with age, activity level, and weather conditions.

- Around 6 months of age, infants can begin to be given water. They only need about 110-240 ml of water per day until they are one year old, as most of their remaining fluids come from breast milk or formula.

- Children aged 1-3 years need approximately 1-1.3 liters of fluids per day, including water, milk, and the water content in food.

- Children aged 4-8 years need approximately 1.2-1.5 liters per day.

- For older children , water needs can increase to 1.5-2 liters or more if they are frequently active outdoors.

During hot weather, parents should encourage children to drink water regularly instead of waiting until they are thirsty. They can be given small sips several times a day, especially after waking up, before and after exercise, after playing outdoors, or after sweating profusely.

Experts also advise against letting children drink too much water at once, as this can cause stomach discomfort and dilute electrolyte levels in the body. Maintaining a consistent water intake throughout the day is much more effective than drinking large amounts at once.

Drinking enough water in the summer helps children avoid dehydration. Photo: Vecteezy.

What kind of drinks should children have?

According to Hopkins Medicine, plain water remains the best option for hydrating children during the summer. It's a sugar-free, stimulant-free beverage that's quickly absorbed by the body.

For infants under 6 months old, breast milk or formula remains the primary source of hydration, and supplemental water is usually not necessary if the child is healthy. Older children can consume fresh fruit juices in moderation or eat water-rich fruits such as watermelon, oranges, grapefruit, and dragon fruit.

In cases where children experience diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, oral rehydration solutions as directed by healthcare professionals are the appropriate choice.

Conversely, parents should limit their children's consumption of sugary soft drinks, bubble tea, energy drinks, or other beverages high in sugar. These types of drinks can increase unnecessary calorie intake and do not provide optimal hydration, even increasing the risk of dehydration.