02/07/2026
My kid is sick and not drinking anything- what do I do?
We’ve all been here before as parents 👎 Early in an illness, it can be hard to keep your kid hydrated. So I tell my parents to let them have whatever they want (within reason!) Yes, all of these products do mostly consist of water and can entice kids to drink. Many kids with illnesses stay in the mild dehydration range, at most, and don’t progress to more severe phases.
BUT- when your child moves into the moderate dehydration phase, we need to get ahead of it and REALLY rehydrate. In this phase, it’s important to make sure you’re specifically using oral rehydration therapy, like kinderlyte (or pedialyte, if you can’t find it). This has the right ratio of salt to sugar and is absorbed optimally.
What are signs of dehydration? Dry mouth and darker p*e/lighter diapers are some signs of mild dehydration. Moderate can include dizziness, fatigue, and no wet diapers for extended periods in infants. Severe dehydration is true lethargy (as in hard to wake up), cold and clammy skin, and confusion, among other things. In infants, this can be a prolonged period without any p*e. It’s really important to recognize signs early and intervene to prevent ever getting to the severe phase!
For mild or moderate dehydration, a key technique is offering small sips frequently.
Important tips: dehydrated babies under 1 need rehydration with only products like kinderlyte or pedialyte. Formula/breastmilk can sit heavy on their stomach, so make up any decrease in volume with these oral rehydration solutions- always under the guidance of your pediatrician.
For diarrheal illnesses, excess sugar can worsen symptoms, which obviously doesn’t help things 🙃 Dilute any juice and try to avoid even the “healthier” soda options.
Dehydration must be taken seriously. As always, consult your child’s pediatrician/provider if you’re concerned! Members- just shoot me a text 😅
