Children need plenty of water to keep their bodies working.
They need to drink more when they are active and when it’s hot.

Children need small drinks often. Keep offering drinks as children may forget to drink when they are busy and become dehydrated.

Water is best – it’s cheap and easy. Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge.

Milk is a good drink for children because it is highly nutritious. Serve milk after or between meals.

Fruit drinks and juice are high in sugar. Almost fill a glass with water and then add a little juice. Serve with lots of ice. Limit to meal times only because sugar present can cause tooth decay.

Tannin in tea and coffee prevent children getting the iron they need from food.

Avoid ’smart’ drinks and drinks containing guarana (a form of caffeine).

Soft Drinks are high in sugar and sometimes contain caffeine. Use as treats only.