How serious is the problem of dehydration in children?
Very and not much. It’s serious insofar as even mild dehydration can disrupt growth and learning. Also serious because it is likely that kids have become increasingly addicted to sugary drinks that tend to dehydrate. And problem can be especially serious for infants as it could be life-threatening at that stage. It may be a factor in “crib death” and “sudden infant death syndrome.” However, over the age of one, it is not likely to be life-threatening. Though not life-threatening, it is absolutely vital that children have all necessary nutrients at all times. Especially water! Without adequate water, growth delays, childhood illnesses, obesity and academic problems may follow. Guideline for how much water to drink from birth to 19 Here is a good rule of thumb regarding how much water kids should drink daily. From 2 – 12 months of age – one ounce for every month of age. From 1 – 19 years of age – one glass of water per year of age up to age 5, then add a half a glass for every year above
