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“I’m thirsty!” How many times have parents heard that comment, as they shuttle their children to after-school activities or Saturday morning soccer games? To quench all those cries and complaints, experts suggest keeping kids well “watered” throughout the day. Whether it’s summer, winter, spring, or fall, good hydration is critical for children, especially when they’re active and on the go.

Perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to remind busy children to “drink up,” is to pack a bottle of water in their backpack before they rush off for school or slip one into their sport’s bag. At zero calories, a bottle of cool, refreshing water is a smart choice. And given the fact that childhood obesity is at an all-time high, it’s important to be mindful of the types of beverages offered to kids. Loading up on sugary drinks packs on the calories and provides little to no nutrition.

If your child drinks one soft drink a day, try weaning her to one a week. After one year alone, she’ll drink 29 fewer gallons and shave 50,000 calories from her diet. Substituting a no-calorie, all-natural beverage such as bottled water, or water right from the tap, for a sugary drink can help children maintain a healthy body weight.

In the end, bringing a reusable water bottle (we like Nalgene’s new Everyday BPA-free line) wherever you go for a quick thirst quencher saves money and time … especially when the kids say, ‘I’m thirsty.”

Average calories and sugar in a 12-ounce grab-and-go beverage

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