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Parents are often mindful of what they feed their children and aim to make healthy choices whenever possible. But the beverages children enjoy is an often overlooked yet equally important aspect of nutrition. Pediatricians and children’s dentists alike encourage parents to swap out sugary beverages, known for causing tooth decay and weight gain, in favor of water. Here are a few tips to get your child to appreciate water.

5 Ways to Get Your Child to Drink More Water

1. Make It Accessible

When water is one of the only beverages in your home, your child is likely to request it more often. In addition to being the first beverage offered when a child expresses thirst, water should also be served with meals instead of juice or soda. For children who can get their own drinks, make tap or fridge water accessible by keeping a stool and child-friendly cups within reach.

2. Add Flavor

Many children dislike water because of its bland taste. Adding some colorful fruits and vegetables can be a quick, healthy fix. While children’s dentists caution against too much acidic fruit, such as lemons, adding cucumber or strawberry slices can add some all-natural flavor to water.

3. Use Fun Cups or Straws

children's dentistChildren love engaging accessories and toys, and you can use this to your advantage by incorporating sippy cups and reusable straws for drinking water. Bring your child to the store to pick out a sippy cup with a cartoon character on it or swirly straws, and make these items your child’s designated water drinking supplies.

4. Use Ice Cube Shapes

Another trick for making water more exciting is to add ice cubes. Purchase ice cube trays in the shape of animals, flowers, or favorite cartoon characters. Just be sure to discourage your child from chewing on ice, which can chip teeth.

5. Be a Good Role Model

If your child sees you carrying out healthy habits, they’ll be more inclined to follow suit. Make sure your little one watches as you refill your bottle, have water with meals, and turn down sugary beverages. You can also make water the drink of choice for family outings.

 

While drinking water is one way to support your child’s teeth, they also need to see a children’s dentist regularly. When it’s time for a cleaning, bring your child to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala. With more than two decades of experience, children’s dentist Allen K. Hirai, DDS, makes oral care a stress-free and even fun experience for little ones in a comfortable environment. Find more information about children’s oral care on the office’s website, or call (808) 737-0076 to schedule an appointment.

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