When do they "need" water?

bt3701 · June 2012

I wanted to ask the pedi, but forgot all about it at the 12 month visit. I noticed a lot of you are offering water frequently. I hardly ever do anymore, as I'm trying to get her used to having milk from the sippy. At what point do they need water as a source of hydration (and not just cup drinking practice!)?

vanessa999 · June 2012

That's a good question. I never really thought about when they "need" water. What I have been doing is ever since I started giving her vegetable purees and fruits I would give her water, she would only take a couple of sips thought. She's been eating table foods since 9 months and I would give her water with her meals and now that it's getting warmer I give her more and more water, especially now that we've switched her over to WCM so she's not getting the water she was getting from the formula. I think probably around 1 year is when they need water, but I'm not exactly sure.

Shine2015 · June 2012

Pedi said all G needs at this point is milk and water - didn't ask how much though since we leave a sippy out for him all day. Pedi did say that some for some kids it is best to have 2 different kinds of sippy cups - one for milk and one for water. That way they know what they are getting from each kind of cup.

AlyciaandRich · June 2012

I don't know when they need it but I offer at meals because we aren't doing milk yet as well as whenever I feel like I need water and he hasn't nursed in awhile. For example if we go to the park and i feel like I need a drink of water I offer to him too. I figure if I am feeling dehydrated he might be too.

Birdies08 · June 2012

My LO has needed it since we started solids or she gets constipated. As far as a hydration source, I'd guess you would see signs your baby is thirsty. LO does sometimes seem to need water on hot days or after we've spent a lot of time outside.