5 tips for keeping kids hydrated during hot Arizona summers
July 16
If there is one thing all Arizonans can agree on, it’s that the extreme heat of summer doesn’t ever get easier, and you never “get used” to it.
In the midst of beautiful winters, Arizonans can sometimes forget what an oven we truly live in. As adults, we know how to regulate our time outdoors and make adjustments to practice heat safety and protect ourselves from overheating, but our children may not be as versed.
How do you keep otherwise active kids hydrated in triple digit temperatures and avoid dehydration? Here are five tips:
1. Be smart about peak heat hours. Kids need vitamin D and need to burn off energy, so don’t take away outdoor time as a whole. Instead, be mindful of peak heat times and avoid being outside when the heat is most extreme. Also, create shady spots in the yard for morning or evening outdoor activities.
2. Start hydration early. Do not have your kids wait until they’re outside to start drinking water and electrolytes. If they wait until they feel thirsty, it may be too late. It may be helpful to make drinking water a game or having a family hydration challenge.
3. Watch for warning signs, and take them seriously. Fatigue, irritability, dark urine, dry mouth, headache and dizziness are all signs of dehydration. Teach children who are old enough to understand to listen to their body, and ensure you are taking proper measures with hydration on hand. Check on your little ones often, especially those that are not able to properly vocalize these symptoms.
4. Eat your water. Offer fun snacks and foods throughout the day that are rich in water such as watermelon, oranges, grapes and celery. Another idea is to make popsicles as a family! Rotate the flavors and fruits you use to make it exciting.
5. Model healthy hydration habits. As with everything else, kids follow suit. If parents, coaches and teachers are often hydrating, children will notice and be more likely to do the same.
What are some of your family’s favorite ways to stay cool during Arizona summers? Share your ideas with us on the Arizona PBS Kids Facebook page!
About the author
Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (8) and Logan (7). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent over 10 years educating third graders, with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.
