Supporting your child with Down syndrome to stay hydrated during hot weather: Parent tips

Hot weather can bring extra challenges for families, and keeping little ones cool and hydrated is often easier said than done. Many parents tell us that their child becomes less interested in drinking during a heatwave, leaving them worried about whether they are getting enough fluids. So, we asked our community to share their experiences and practical tips. As always, parents came through with plenty of ideas and reassurance. Here’s what they told us:

1. Think beyond drinks

Many parents reminded us that fluids don’t just come from drinks. Foods with a high-water content can make a big difference. 

“We had the same issues with my daughter. We went for all the watery foods like cucumber, melons, yogurts, ice pops, milk, anything to get her hydrated.” 

“I added water into foods where I could and gave things like watermelon and cucumber to help increase fluids.“ 

Water-rich foods such as watermelon, strawberries, grapes, oranges and cucumber can all help boost hydration.

2. Make cooling treats work for you

When water isn’t appealing, novelty and favourite foods can help. 

“I make lots of homemade jelly for added fluids.“ 

“Ice lollies for the win! You can make your own with fruit or real fruit juice.” 

“We offered more yoghurt, frozen yoghurt and fruit with high water content.“ 

Homemade ice lollies, jelly, milkshakes and frozen yoghurt were all popular suggestions.

3. Wet foods count too

Some parents found that softer, wetter foods helped take the pressure off. 

“It’s a lot of wet foods – more than you’d expect. Custard, jelly, yoghurts and smoothies have been great for us.“ 

“Make everything a little more sloppy like porridge, mash or Weetabix, and serve meals with a wet side like beans.“ 

Remember that every little bit adds up.

4. Sometimes it’s okay to bend the rules 

Many parents shared that during hot weather, staying hydrated takes priority. 

“If you have to resort to something sugary or less healthy, then so be it.” 

“For us, milkshakes and fruit shoots become a novelty. Try anything that isn’t the norm.” 

Whether it’s a special cup, a straw, or a favourite drink that isn’t usually offered, sometimes a change can encourage more fluid intake.

5. Make drinking fun and model it

Children often learn by copying those around them. 

“My son is a sucker for peer pressure. Lots of modelling drinking, especially if you have little ones they can copy from.“ 

Novelty cups, straws and seeing siblings or friends drinking can all encourage little ones to join in.

6. Keep things cool

Helping children stay cool can also reduce fluid loss. 

“We have a portable air conditioning unit, but if you have a fan you can put a damp towel over it or a frozen bottle of water in front of it to circulate cooler air.“ 

“We literally spend the day with floor play in a darkened room.“ 

Reducing activity and keeping rooms shaded can help little ones stay comfortable during extreme temperatures.

7. Go back to what worked before

If you’ve recently moved on from bottles or certain cups, don’t be afraid to revisit them temporarily. 

“If there is a bottle you’ve moved on from, then go back to it. Also check what nursery are doing – they may have a trick up their sleeve that you can start doing at home.“ 

Sometimes familiar routines can help during periods of illness or hot weather. 

8. Small amounts soon add up 

One parent shared a tip that had helped when fluids were particularly difficult: 

“We used Calpol syringes to give small amounts of water. Even 10ml every 20 minutes adds up, and you can use Dioralyte if you’re worried about dehydration.“ 

Reassurance from other parents 

Several parents shared that they had experienced the same worries. 

Knowing that others have been through similar situations can be reassuring, but if you are concerned about your child’s hydration or notice signs of dehydration, it is important to seek advice from your GP, health visitor or another healthcare professional. 

Additional tips from parents 

• Offer watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, grapes and oranges. 
• Try homemade jelly, smoothies and milkshakes. 
• Use ice lollies or frozen yoghurt. 
• Offer novelty cups, straws or favourite drinks. 
• Add extra liquid to porridge, cereal and mash. 
• Keep rooms cool and reduce strenuous activity. 
• Ask nursery what strategies they are using. 
• Don’t worry about perfect nutrition during a heatwave – hydration comes first. 

💛 As always, these are experiences shared by families in our community and are not intended as medical advice. If you are worried about your child’s fluid intake or notice signs of dehydration, please contact your healthcare professional.