Children are better learners when they are hydrated

Let’s take it back.. you’re in the school yard on lunch break, sun beaming down as you run around with friends. You’re thirsty, really thirsty, but that rusty drinking fountain tucked away in the corner isn’t looking too inviting, not to mention half the time you miss your mouth and get an uninvited shower! Bad experience aside, we’ve recently been asking ourselves just how important is hydration in children?

There are a few telltale signs that signal a child might be dehydrated:

• Headaches
• Poor concentration
• Thirst 
• Cracked lips
• Dry mouth
• Lethargy

Hydration is critical in supporting developing brains and learning, both at home and during the day. When you consider that the human body is about 60% water (which can often be higher in children!) and the brain is 80% water, it isn’t an exaggeration to say that it’s absolutely necessary to stay hydrated. A neuroscientist writing for Psychology Today said “Our brains depend on proper hydration to function optimally. Brain cells require a delicate balance between water and various elements to operate, and when you lose too much water, that balance is disrupted. Your brain cells lose efficiency”. A study by Oxford Academic even found that adequate hydration improved memory and increased attention. 

We know that sometimes it can be tough to encourage kids to drink more water, but here are some tips that we’ve found help:

• Carrying a drink bottle around - we have some trendy bottles here, that will keep water cool throughout the day!
• Making sure that there are functioning drinking fountains in schools and public places - check out our range here.
• Adding sugar-free flavoured drops to water - we have a range here.
• Encouraging reminders to drink water after sports and other activity.

Water is by far the best choice for hydration. Mountain Fresh has a range of options to support hydration - whether it’s for your home, your community or your school. Touch base to discuss what options might be best suited for you.