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 Children are more vulnerable to the effect of dehydration than adults. Even though children have a lower capacity for sweating, their hydration needs are not that different than adults. As a result, they overheat more frequently.
Because kids’ bodies don’t cool down as efficiently as adults’, parents and caregivers need to encourage active children to drink often and be cognizant for the signs of dehydration. Infants and toddlers are also at risk during hot weather.
Because severe dehydration can be life-threatening, knowing the signs and acting quickly to help them cool down and re-hydrate is critical.
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to remain hydrated.-Encourage your kids to do the same-active children lose 2 or more quarts of water daily so their bodies need to be continuously replenished.
- Drink 8-10 oz. of water every 15 minutes during a run and another 10-12 oz. immediately following your workout.-An athlete can lose from 6-10 pounds, almost all of it water, during a 10K race in hot weather.
- Have your child take water breaks every 15-20 minutes while playing outside or participating in a sports activity.-Get your kids in the habit of always carrying cold water in their beverage holder when they go for a bike ride.
When packing your car for a weekend trip, don't forget to include water in the cooler. Freeze a partially full bottle of water the night before a trip and fill it with more bottled water before you leave and you'll have instant chilled water all day long. |
