Here in Chicago it never gets too hot compared to other parts of the country. Because of that, many schools are not air conditioned. Since school has started the weather hasn't topped 85 degrees, but you put hundreds of active students in a warm building and you end up with a bunch of red-faced, sweaty kids at the end of the day.
I make sure to send a full, reusable water bottle in my son's lunch box and I know that he is allowed to refill it as needed throughout the school day. Proper hydration is so important, not only for our kids' overall health, but also for their academic success and I'm so glad his teachers see the importance of their students staying hydrated!
Adult bodies are made up of approximately 60% water. With children, that number is even higher. Approximately 70% of their bodies are made up of water, so of course, water (or the lack of it) affects every part of them. Without enough water, students may become fatigued, dizzy, show poor concentration and even have reduced ability to retain what they are being taught. According to Healthy Brain for Life, "Even mild levels of dehydration can impact school performance."
And what about P.E., recess or after school sports? As dehydration causes fatigue, any physical activity becomes harder if your child hasn't had enough water. By ensuring that each student has had plenty of water both before and after any physical activity, teachers can help kids move more and enjoy themselves as they exercise, play ball or chase their friends on the playground.
As we enter into fall and the weather cools off, you might think sending extra water to school isn't as important. But dehydration isn't just a hot weather problem. The air is dryer, so your body has to work harder to humidify it and warm it up. Plus kids are just as active in the winter with indoor recess and P.E., so continue to encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout their school day, even if there is snow on the ground!
And keep an eye out for the signs of dehydration. If your child is more tired than usual when you pick them up, irritable, crying without tears, not urinating for 4 - 6 hours or listless, call your doctor.
