5 Ways to Get Your Children to Drink More Water

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Wasn't it Mary Poppins who said "Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down"? In my house, we have taken that to extremes! Luckily, my children are addicted to fruit juice but even most fruit juices are loaded with sugar and still not the same as water. Come to think of it, I am probably the worst one in my house when it comes to what I drink. I am a soda "Junkie"- Not an addict, a literal junkie. Yes, I have read and studied all of the reasons why diet soda is bad for us and have decided that my precious silver can is worth the risk. When I run out, I even hold my empty can so I don't go through separation anxiety...... Okay, its not that bad but you get the idea. I have been attacking what we eat with a vengeance and have neglected to focus on the liquids we put into our bodies- so the journey starts today.

Why do our bodies need water?

• Brain Power - yep, water can make you smarter! Since your brain is made up mostly of water, keeping your water tanks full will allow you to stay more alert and aware. Without enough water, your brain cannot function well which can lead to headaches and migraines.
• Look Younger - Your entire body is made up of water, including your skin! Drinking plenty of water will keep these cells full and plump which can help reduce the appearance and depth of wrinkles!
• Weight Loss - Water assists in digestion and boosts your metabolism. Water also regulates your body temperature so you are able to have a more productive workout!
• Health Benefits - Drinking lots of water helps to fight against flu and things like kidney stones and heart attacks. Add lemon to your water and it will help fight respiratory disease, intestinal problems, rheumatism and arthritis.
• Mood Enhancer and Energy Booster - Water helps to flush toxins out of your body. Without enough water, you heart has to work harder to get the oxygenated cells to the rest of your body. This tires out your body which means you are a bit exhausted too! Giving your body enough water will allow it to run at peak function - so it will be happy and it should share the love!

I know that there are many more reasons but Those are just a few of the reasons why water is good for us.

So...now we know it is good for us.....How do we get our kids (eh...ourselves) to drink more?!?!

Here are 5 GREAT Ways to get your kids to drink More WATER!

1. Make it accessible - Soda and juices are so convenient because they are kept in the fridge so they always cold. EVERYTHING tastes better cold! So keep a large water jug or dispenser where your children can access it! If you get one like the one pictured, you can refill it yourself and your children will LOVE the fact that they can get it themselves!
2. Add Fruit - I know that a lot of folks add lemon and lime but maybe you want your water to have a bit more pizazz! Try adding watermelon, oranges, berries, or even cucumber to your water. Freeze the fruit first and you will have delicious ice cubes!
   
3. Fun Cups - Any fun cup will do! A cute sipper, a cup with a crazy straw, or try a cup that your child can decorate! You can actually use their favorite piece of artwork, a picture, or have them design something super special. Taking the time to sit with your child and decorate this cup will make it special for them and they will use it more!
   
4. FREEZE IT! Make an ice pop for summer fun! Add fresh fruit and sit it in a mold (or use a dixie cup and a Popsicle stick) in the freezer.
   
5. Make it a game! Get a chalk board or dry erase board and track EVERYONE in the families water intake! The first one to eight cups wins!
   

I hope that these fun tips help your family to drink more water. Doctors recommend 8 8ounce glasses per day. Yes, I know that there are concerns out there about the safety of tap water and you can learn more by visiting www.epa.gov/safewater/annual and by calling your local water agency.The EPA believes that at least 90 percent of the United State's Drinking Water is safe but if you still want to be extra careful, you can also test your water yourself, using a home test kit. These tests detect lead, arsenic, pesticides, and bacteria. Two reputable ones are PurTest and Discover testing. The kits sell for $10 to $30.

Good luck to your children (and yourself) on developing better water drinking habits! if you have any tips, PLEASE SHARE!