June 20, 2026 · 4 min read
Daily water intake for children
Children dehydrate faster than adults. Active play, school, sport — all of it increases their need for water. But kids often don't feel thirsty until it's already too late.
Recommendations by age
| Age | Daily water intake |
|---|---|
| 1–3 | ~1.3 litres |
| 4–8 | ~1.7 litres |
| 9–13 | ~2.1–2.4 litres |
| 14+ | Close to adults: 2–2.5 litres |
These figures include fluids from food as well.
Ways to get kids to drink more
Make it fun: Colourful or unusually shaped cups can make drinking more appealing for younger children.
Drink together: Kids copy what they see. When a parent drinks water, children tend to follow.
Infused water: Add a slice of lemon, orange, or a few berries — it gives the water a mild flavour kids enjoy.
Link it to activities: "Drink half a cup before the football game" — simple rules like this work well.
When to pay attention
If your child:
- Has no tears when crying
- Has dark yellow urine
- Seems unusually tired or sluggish
...give water immediately, and consult a doctor if it doesn't improve.
Why clean water matters more for kids
Children's immune systems are still developing, which makes water quality especially important. Ordering certified drinking water is one of the most reliable ways to protect your family's health.