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How much water should my toddler drink?

Parenting Perspective

A toddler (1-3 years) generally needs to consume about 4-6 cups (about 1-1.5 litres) of liquid per day, mostly water. The actual amount varies with the size of the child, activity level, and where they live. Water is necessary for hydration, digestion, and the regulation of body temperature in a young child, particularly once solid foods dominate their diet. Parents and caregivers should provide toddlers with water regularly throughout the day, especially in between meals and after exercise. Too much water needs to be avoided, as it may displace foods with nutrients or cause water intoxication in rare or extreme cases. Breastmilk or cow milk also replaces daily fluids, but water should be encouraged as the first and foremost choice of drink for such a young child.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Anbiyaa (21), Verse 30: ‘…And We (Allah Almighty) designed (the emergence of) all forms of life from water; so why do they still not believe (in the infinite truth)?’ This verse conveys the vital importance of water to the creation, maintenance and progress of life. It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3684, that when asked which charity is best, holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: ‘Giving water to drink.’ From this Hadith we can see the importance and benefit of water. We can also understand how the act of providing water, is a virtuous deed that not only fulfils the physical need of those dependent on us, like toddlers, but also spiritually benefits the parent. These references affirm water as a vital and pure source of nourishment that should be offered in balance and gratitude to their young, developing child.

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