Dr Lawson Chikara, Specialist Paediatrician/Child Specialist, Harare, Zimbabwe

How much fluid your child needs every day?

Keeping your child well hydrated is crucial to their overall health and well-being. But how much fluid does your child actually need every day? The answer depends on a number of factors, including their age, weight, activity level, and the climate in which they live.
Here are some general guidelines on how much fluid your child needs every day:
Infants: Infants who are breastfed or formula-fed do not need additional fluids until they begin eating solid foods. After that, they typically need 4-8 ounces of water or other fluids per day.
Toddlers: Toddlers need about 2-4 cups of fluids per day. This can include water, milk, and other fluids such as fruit juice or soup.
Children: Children between the ages of 4 and 8 need about 5 cups of fluids per day. Older children and adolescents need about 7-8 cups of fluids per day.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines and that the actual amount of fluid your child needs may vary based on their individual needs. Factors such as activity level, climate, and illness can all impact fluid needs.
In addition to water, children can also get fluids from other sources such as milk, juice, and soup. However, it is important to limit sugary drinks such as soda and fruit juice, as these can contribute to tooth decay and obesity.
Ensuring that your child is well hydrated is an important part of promoting their overall health and well-being. By following these general guidelines and encouraging your child to drink fluids throughout the day, you can help ensure that they are getting the fluids they need to stay healthy and active.
We hope you found this article helpful.
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