Why Elementary Schoolers Need To Stay Hydrated
We know how important it is to keep our children healthy and happy. Of all the things we can do to promote good health, one of the simplest and most effective is making sure they stay hydrated. The importance of drinking enough water is something that we underscore for high schoolers, college students, and adults, but even pre-teen kids need to stay hydrated. In this article, we’ll explore why elementary schoolers need to stay hydrated throughout the school day and offer some tips and tricks for getting them to drink more water.
H2O Hacks
Of course, one of the biggest challenges in getting elementary schoolers to drink enough water is that many of them don’t like the taste of it—or rather, the lack thereof. Growing up with juice, soda, and sugary fruit drinks can make plain old water feel less like a refreshment and more like a chore.
Fortunately, there are several ways to make water more palatable and appealing. One option is to infuse it with fresh fruit, like berries, citrus, or cucumber. Another is to pack a few ice cubes to keep it extra cold and refreshing. By packing the right water bottle among your kid’s backpack essentials, cold drinks can stay cold throughout the day.
Achievement in the Classroom
Dehydration hits kids hard, and with smaller bodies than ours, dehydration can come on fast. When children become dehydrated, they experience a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms can be especially challenging for young students who need to feel alert and focused to learn and succeed in the classroom. Grades matter, even at a young age, and poor concentration can put the “D” in dehydration.
Contend With Poor AC Systems
Another reason why elementary schoolers need to stay hydrated is that it helps them regulate their body temperature. Young children are particularly vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially during the warmer months of the year. And let’s be honest—many older school buildings are still not at the forefront of HVAC technology. In other words, air conditioning is limited or nonexistent.
Keeping a full water bottle close at hand can prevent these conditions and ensure that your kid remains comfortable and safe in the classroom. When it comes to extracurriculars, drinking plenty of water helps them regulate their body temperature and avoid overheating during sports and other activities.
Digestive Considerations
Drinking enough water also helps young children maintain healthy digestion, and that’s important for growing bodies with big appetites. When they’re dehydrated, they can experience constipation and other digestive problems that can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Water helps their bodies move food through the system more easily and can also prevent urinary tract infections and other issues.
