As the kids play outside in these long, hot summer days, it’s important to keep them cool and hydrated. Instead of handing them a sugary beverage like that juice box or can of soda, get some cool points by making your own version of Kool-Aid—one that’s just as fun and tasty with a lot more nutritional benefits to offer. The following summer drinks for kids are easy to make and will keep the kids cool and healthy in the warm season.
Strawberry Lemonade
- 8 strawberries (halved)
- 8 cups water
- 2 tablespoons of white sugar or sweetener
- 2 cups lemon juice
Among the many summer drinks for kids, lemonade tends to rank among the summertime classics. Instead of giving them store-bought, where you can’t control the amount of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, try a DIY lemonade with strawberries for extra natural sweetness. Mix strawberries in a blender with a couple tablespoons of sugar or sweetener, along with a cup of water. Then, in a water-filled pitcher, pour the strawberry mixture in along with squeezed lemon juice, and serve chilled. This fresh lemonade recipe combines strawberries, which are packed with antioxidants, and lemon, which promotes hydration. So it offers a delicious taste along with other benefits that are great for both the kids and yourself.
Slushies
- 2 cups chopped watermelon
- 1 cup ice (or more as needed)
- ¼ cup sparkling water
What want a sugar-packed, convenience store slushy after playing a soccer game? It’s hard to compete with, but you can be the parent that takes on the making homemade slushies. These magical concoctions are actually very simple to whip up. For an extra hydrating, fruity slushy that contains no added sugar, blend chopped watermelon, ice and sparkling water on high in a blender. The watermelon can work to replenish electrolytes and the icy cold drink will help the kids cool down after all that running—plus, they get their daily dose of fruit.
Fruit Punch
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup grape juice
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup apple juice
- Frozen fruit
The well-rounded, sweet, flavors of fruit punch are appealing to kids, especially during a hot day. Instead of the commercial fruit punch from a pouch, box or can, you can make a healthier version. Simply mix water, 100% grape juice, 100% apple juice, 100% orange juice and frozen fruit in a pitcher, then chill. By making the fruit punch yourself, your kids can avoid the unnecessary added high fructose corn syrup and you will know exactly what they are drinking.
Healthy Water For Healthy Kids’ Drinks
Whether it’s in your ice cubes or as a main ingredient, the quality of water used in these homemade drinks for kids matters. Culligan is here to check that your water filtration system is properly running. That way, you can keep cool knowing you’re providing safe water your kids can drink, all summer long.