The amount of fluid a child / teenager needs depends on many factors, but generally they should aim to drink about 6-8 glasses of fluid a day, using smaller glasses (150-200ml) for younger children. This is based on recommendations on fluid intake for children from the European Food Safety Authority.
The best drinks to give children are water and milk. Children should limit sugary fizzy drinks, squash and juice drinks. Children who drink a lot of sugary drinks are more likely to become overweight. The added sugar in these drinks can also damage teeth.
Tips for healthy hydration
Drink plenty
Water is a good choice throughout the day because it hydrates without providing extra energy (calories / kilojoules) or harming teeth.
Have regularly
Milk is a useful source of nutrients, especially protein, B vitamins, iodine and calcium. Most children can have lower-fat milks such as skimmed, 1% or semi-skimmed.
Occasionally
Sugar-free drinks hydrate without adding extra sugars, but it’s a good idea for most drinks to be milk or water.
Fizzy drinks may contain acids that can be harmful to teeth. Be aware that some of these drinks contain caffeine.
Occasionally (and in small amounts if caffeinated)
Tea and coffee – caffeine is naturally present in tea and coffee. Small amounts are harmless, but high intakes should be avoided, especially for young children. It’s best for children to drink decaffeinated tea and coffee with reduced-fat milk and no added sugar.
Avoid
Sugary drinks – are best limited as they contain sugars, but few other nutrients. Fizzy / sugar-free drinks may contain acids that can also be harmful to teeth and some soft drinks contain caffeine.
Not suitable for children
Sports and energy drinks – can be high in sugars and may contain high levels of caffeine or other stimulants. These drinks are not suitable for young children.
Source: British Nutrition Foundation
Additional information and support
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