WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
As parents, you want your kids to be happy and healthy. However, many of their favorite drinks, like soda, juice boxes and sports drinks, may be standing in their way. The best way to keep them going is choosing water.
Water has so many incredible benefits, like better concentration, boosted immune systems, smoother digestion and sustained energy.
Ready to make the switch from sugar-sweetened beverages to healthy, hydrating water? Here are some parent-tested tips:
Start Small
If your kids love juice, making the switch to ONLY water may be difficult. Instead, work it into their daily lives!
- Try the 50/50 method. Mix half water with half of their favorite juice or sports drink. Slowly increase the water ratio over time. Your kids will still get the flavor they love while cutting sugar in half!
- Replace one drink. If your kids drink multiple sugar-sweetened beverages throughout the day, start by swapping one with water. As your kid adjusts to the change, you can increase the amount until they reach their daily goal.
- Make meals “water windows.” Instead of serving juice or soda with lunch and dinner, serve water instead. Setting these “water windows” will encourage your kids to always choose water at mealtime, including the school lunch line and restaurants.
Don’t Buy It
The easiest way to avoid the “Mom, can I have juice?” battle is to keep sugary drinks out of your fridge. This is also a win for your wallet since soda, sports drinks and juice can spike your grocery bill. If you think your family will miss the fizz, try these tips:
- Make water fun. Silly straws and colorful cups may seem … silly, but these little changes can make water seem more appealing.
- Add flavor or fizz. If your kids like soda, give sparkling water a try. If your kids want more flavor, one of our fruit-infused water recipes can add a splash of variety.
- Find their favorite water bottles. A reusable water bottle has many benefits, from helping you save water when you’re out to making it easier to keep water with you wherever you go. If budget allows, let your kids pick out a new water bottle they can carry with them throughout the day.
Make It a Family Challenge
Nothing is more fun than getting healthy together! Print or download our water tracker, and let kids mark off each glass of water they drink. Once everyone in your family has achieved their water goals, it’s time to celebrate.
Lead by Example
Kids copy what they see. When they watch you choose water over soda, they’re more likely to do the same. If you need inspiration, check out our sugar calculator to see how much sugar you’re drinking daily.
Small changes lead to big health benefits for the whole family! Building healthy hydration habits now sets your kids up for a lifetime of wellness, and all you need to get started is a glass of water.
Looking for more family-friendly health tips? Explore healthy recipes for your family’s busy schedule, easy and free ways to get moving and helpful tips for a good night’s sleep!