The Natural Hydration Council has published a new factsheet on early years hydration, endorsed by the British Dietetic Association. The guidelines recommend that water should be children’s primary source of fluid intake alongside milk. They also explain that:
Breastfed babies do not need additional drinks while they are exclusively breastfed; then after six months when weaning begins, water or infant formula can also be offered as a drink.
Bottle-fed infants can be offered cooled boiled water if they require extra fluid, and water can also be offered during the weaning period.
For younger children aged between two and three, around 0.9 litres per day of fluid should be provided. This is the equivalent of around four small glasses.
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