The heat is unbelievable – the current heat index at this moment is close to 120. We talked to Dr. Noel “Kip” Frizzell, Le Bonheur’s Director of Coordinated Care and local pediatrician about appropriate hydration for infants and younger children. Here’s what Dr. Kip had to say.
My best advice for parents of young infants and toddlers is to stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible. Young athletes will need to be especially cautious if they must be outdoors.
For those who must be outdoors, I think that the heat exposure should be only for brief periods. I would encourage activities that involve water play so that some cooling will occur. Remember all the safety rules for hoses, sprinklers and pools.
Lastly, even infants and toddlers might experience more thirst in this heat. It is safe to offer some tap water to infants as young as 3 months. There is no need for juices or sweetened fluids as plain water is best for thirst. I would say only 4 to 6 ounces for small infants ages 3 to 6 months. Offer more, of course, for older children or if they are outdoors for longer periods.
Overheating and dehydration are easier to prevent than to treat.
