Water is an important component of our body. Every function of the body depends on water. Drinking water is one of the healthy and basic steps to a better life. Therefore, parents hope that they can soon teach their children healthy drinking habits. But when can children drink water? Here are some helpful tips for you to know when we can give water to children.
When can children drink water?
Experts believe that water should not be given to babies before 6 months of age. Newborns usually get enough water from breast milk or formula, even in hot weather. Indeed, too much water can fill a baby's tummy, which is too weak to withstand too much external pressure, and too much water can reduce the desire to suckle and interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the milk. Small sips of water may not harm a baby, but a doctor should be consulted before giving water to a baby before 6 months of age. The timeline below will show you specifically when your child can drink water.
From birth - 3 months
Infants should not drink. With very small bellies, infants should not be given a bottle of water as it will fill the stomach and replace milk. In addition, too much water upsets the normal balance of electrolytes in the body and can affect brain and heart function.
4 to 6 months
Giving water to infants at this age is not dangerous but not necessary. Research shows that breastfed babies don't need extra water, even in tropical regions where temperatures can exceed 100°F per day. Formula-fed babies can be given fluids (about an ounce or even two ounces) in hot weather, but it's best to consult your pediatrician. Water should never replace breast milk and formula should not be diluted with additional water.
About 5-7 months old
Babies at this age can hold objects and can learn to drink liquids from cups. Give your baby a cup without a valve for easy feeding. Choose one that can hold 4-6 ounces of liquid and fill it to the top so your baby doesn't have to tilt his head when drinking. A large cup filled with water may be too heavy for young children.
You may sometimes be advised to use tap water, but boil the water first. If so, make sure the water is simmering and let it simmer for at least a minute. This will kill any pathogens in the water that could harm your baby. However, do not boil the water for too long and do not boil it repeatedly, as this can really concentrate the impurities and make the situation worse.