Fun, colorful hydration options for kids include infused water with fruits and herbs, homemade fruit juice popsicles, and diluted fruit smoothies. These are healthier alternatives to sugary drinks and encourage hydration.
Keeping kids hydrated can be a challenge, especially when they're used to sugary drinks. Here's a breakdown of fun and colorful hydration options that are also healthy:
Infused Water: This is a simple way to add flavor and color to plain water. Use a clear pitcher or water bottle so kids can see the colorful fruits and herbs. Some great combinations include:
Strawberry and mint
Cucumber and lemon
Raspberry and lime
Orange and blueberry
Simply add the sliced fruits and herbs to a pitcher of water and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Refill the pitcher with water as needed.
Homemade Fruit Juice Popsicles: These are a refreshing treat, especially during warmer months. Blend fresh fruits like watermelon, berries, or mangoes with a little water or coconut water. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 4 hours. You can also add small pieces of fruit for extra texture and visual appeal.
Diluted Fruit Smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients and hydration. Use a base of water or unsweetened almond milk and blend with fruits like bananas, spinach (the color will be hidden by the fruit!), and berries. Dilute the smoothie with extra water to make it more hydrating and less thick.
Sparkling Water with Fruit: The bubbles can make water more appealing. Add slices of colorful fruits like oranges, lemons, or berries to sparkling water for a refreshing and visually appealing drink.
Avoid adding sugar or artificial sweeteners to these hydration options. The natural sweetness of the fruits should be enough to make them appealing to kids. If needed, a tiny amount of honey or maple syrup can be used sparingly.