Why Drinking Water Is Important for Kids

Introduction

Hi, and welcome to the HEAL blog.

Have you ever wondered why everyone keeps telling you to drink more water?

Maybe your parents, teachers, or coaches always say, “Don’t forget your water bottle!”

They’re right. Water is not just tasty (especially when you’ve been playing outside or

running around), but it’s also important for your health. Let’s talk about why water is

important and how much you should drink every day.

What is Water?

Water is a liquid made up of hydrogen and oxygen. Its chemical formula is H 2 O.

Water is clear, has no taste or smell, but it’s what most of our planet (and YOU) is made of.

Did You Know? About 60% of your body is made of water. Imagine every part of you, from your brain to your toes, has water inside helping you move, think, and stay healthy.

Why Does Your Body Need Water?

Water helps you in many ways. Here are a few ways water affects your body:

1. Cool Down: When you sweat, water helps your body stay cool, so you won’t

overheat, even on hot days.

2. Energy: Water helps turn the food you eat into energy.

3. Healthy Digestion: It helps your stomach and intestines break down food.

4. Happy Muscles and Joints: Water keeps your muscles moving and stops your joints

from getting stiff.

5. Brain Power: Your brain is about 75% water. When you drink water, you can think

better and focus at school.

6. Detox Hero: Your body uses water to get rid of waste and germs.

How Much Water Should You Drink?

You don’t need to keep counting glasses all day. But as a general rule, kids between

9-13-year-olds should aim to drink about 5-6 cups. A cup is 8 ounces of water. So, drinking 5-6 cups of water is about 3 bottles of water every day. If you’re active,

sweating, or it’s a hot day, you might need to drink more.

Here’s a handy trick:

• Listen to your body: If you feel thirsty, get a drink.

• Check your urine: (It might sound funny, but it works!) If it’s light yellow, you are

drinking enough water. If it’s dark yellow, drink more water.

Where Does Your Water Come From?

You might get your water from the faucet at home, school, or even from bottles.

Water usually starts as rain or snow, and then it is cleaned at water plants before it gets

to you, so it’s safe to drink.

Quick Water Tips

• Bring a water bottle in your backpack.

• Drink before, during, and after playing sports.

• Don’t wait until you feel really thirsty—drink water throughout the day.

• Eat fruits and veggies like orange slices, watermelon, and cucumber—they’re

packed with water, too!

Final Thoughts

Did you know that you can only live a few days without water? That’s how important

it is for your body. If you drink enough water every day, you’ll have more energy, and

you will feel better, too.

The next time you fill up your water bottle, remember: you’re doing something

amazing for your body and your brain.

Written by Rebecca and researched by Salome

2025 The HEAL Project