Finding the best drinks for kids can feel like a mission! As parents, we want to ensure our little ones are well-hydrated and nourished, but navigating the endless options, from sugary concoctions to seemingly healthy juices, can be tricky. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between taste, nutrition, and convenience.
Choosing the right beverages isn’t just about quenching thirst; it’s crucial for their growth, energy levels, and overall well-being. Sugary drinks contribute to dental problems and weight gain, while nutrient-rich options can support their immune system and provide essential vitamins. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked selection of the best drinks for kids that parents trust and children actually enjoy.
Whether you’re dealing with a picky eater, an active adventurer, or just looking for healthier alternatives for school lunches, this guide has got you covered. We’re diving into seven fantastic options that offer a blend of deliciousness and desirable nutritional benefits. Let’s make healthier hydration easier and more fun for everyone!
Why Choosing the Right Drinks Matters for Kids
Think about it: drinks make up a significant part of your child’s daily intake. Opting for healthy hydration means giving their bodies what they need without the drawbacks of excessive sugar or artificial additives. Proper fluid intake supports everything from cognitive function and energy levels to digestion and maintaining a healthy body temperature. On the flip side, too much sugar can lead to energy crashes, mood swings, and long-term health issues. Our goal is to find those children’s beverages that offer a win-win: great taste and great health benefits.
What to Look for in Kids’ Drinks
When you’re on the hunt for top-notch child-friendly drinks, here’s a quick checklist to guide your choices:
- Low Sugar Content: Prioritize drinks with minimal or no added sugars. Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are better alternatives.
- Natural Ingredients: Look for real fruit, vegetable extracts, and whole food ingredients. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Nutritional Value: Drinks fortified with vitamins (A, C, D, E) and minerals (calcium, zinc) can offer an extra boost.
- Convenience: Pouches, ready-to-drink bottles, or easy-to-mix packets are perfect for busy schedules and on-the-go snacks.
- Hydration Focus: Ultimately, the main job of a drink is to hydrate!
The 7 Best Drinks for Kids to Keep Them Hydrated & Happy
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best drinks for kids, each offering something unique to make your parenting journey a little easier and a lot healthier.
1. Orgain Organic Kids Protein Nutritional Shake, Chocolate
This shake is a game-changer for parents seeking a robust nutritional boost for their children. Orgain’s Organic Kids Protein Nutritional Shake isn’t just another chocolate milk; it’s a powerhouse of plant-based goodness designed to fuel growing bodies. Perfect for picky eaters, busy mornings, or post-activity recovery, these shakes pack in protein, fiber, and an impressive blend of vitamins and minerals, all while keeping sugar content lower than many leading alternatives. Plus, it’s packed with organic fruits and vegetables, making it an easy way to sneak in some extra greens!
Key Features:
- 25% less sugar vs. leading kids protein shakes.
- Gluten-free, USDA Organic & Plant-Based, Non-GMO, Kosher.
- No soy ingredients, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- 3g of Fiber and 22 Vitamins and Minerals for immune support.
- Crafted with Organic Grass-Fed Milk Protein, Whey Protein Concentrate, and a Fruit and Vegetable blend (acai, apple, beet, blueberry, carrot, kale & spinach).
- Portable nutrition for ages 4+, ideal for picky eaters, on-the-go, or sports.
- Includes 12 (8.25 Ounce) ready-to-drink shakes, 180 calories per serving.
Pros:
- Highly nutritious with protein, fiber, and a wide range of vitamins.
- Organic and free from many common allergens and artificial ingredients.
- Great for children who need extra calories or struggle with vegetable intake.
- Convenient and easy to pack for school or activities.
- Supports immune health.
Cons:
- Higher calorie count may not be suitable for all dietary needs.
- Chocolate flavor, while popular, might not appeal to every child.
User Impressions: Parents rave about how this shake helps bridge nutritional gaps for their kids, especially those who are particular about food. Many highlight its effectiveness as a quick breakfast or a post-sport recovery drink, appreciating the clean ingredient list and the peace of mind it offers.
2. Capri Sun Fruit Punch, Strawberry Kiwi and Pacific Cooler
A classic for a reason, Capri Sun continues to be a go-to for many families, now with an improved formula that parents can feel better about. This variety pack offers the nostalgic flavors kids love – Fruit Punch, Strawberry Kiwi, and Pacific Cooler – all made with natural ingredients and sweetened with monk fruit. These iconic pouches are incredibly convenient for lunchboxes, picnics, or any time your child needs a refreshing drink. It’s a dependable choice when you want that familiar, fun drink without the artificial extras.
Key Features:
- Variety pack (30 ct, 6 fl oz pouches) with Fruit Punch, Strawberry Kiwi, and Pacific Cooler.
- All-natural ingredients, sweetened with monk fruit.
- No artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or high-fructose corn syrup.
- Convenient and iconic pouch for school lunches and on-the-go.
- Ready-to-drink juice blend.
- SNAP & EBT eligible food item.
Pros:
- Kids absolutely love the taste and the fun pouch format.
- Easy to grab and go, perfect for busy families.
- Now made with natural sweeteners and no artificial ingredients, a win for parents.
- Great variety to keep things interesting.
Cons:
- While improved, it’s still a juice drink blend and not a pure juice or water.
- Pouches can occasionally be prone to spills if mishandled by younger children.
User Impressions: Many parents express relief that their favorite childhood drink has evolved to be a healthier option, appreciating the switch to natural sweeteners. Kids remain big fans of the taste, making it a reliable choice for school and playdates.
3. Kool-Aid Jammers Tropical Punch, Grape & Cherry Flavored 0%
For those moments when you want a fun, flavorful treat for your kids without the sugar, Kool-Aid Jammers 0% is an excellent pick. This variety pack brings back the beloved Tropical Punch, Grape, and Cherry flavors in a zero-sugar format, making it a guilt-free pleasure. These easy-to-open pouches are ideal for adding a splash of excitement to lunchboxes or as a refreshing cooldown after playtime, proving that zero sugar doesn’t mean zero flavor!
Key Features:
- 30-count variety pack: 10 tropical punch, 10 grape, 10 cherry.
- Artificially flavored drink pouches, but with 0% sugar.
- Easy to open, perfect for kids.
- Contains 55% less sugar than leading regular sodas (this product 10g total sugar, leading regular sodas 40g total sugar, per 12 fl oz).
- Packed with fruit flavors kids love.
- Perfect for school lunches or on-the-go snacks.
- SNAP & EBT eligible food item.
Pros:
- Completely sugar-free, a huge plus for managing sugar intake.
- Kids adore the classic, vibrant flavors and the fun pouches.
- Very convenient and portable for any occasion.
- An affordable option for a treat.
Cons:
- Uses artificial flavors, which some parents prefer to avoid.
- Offers less nutritional value compared to options with real fruit or added vitamins.
User Impressions: Parents are thrilled to have a zero-sugar option for a drink their kids genuinely enjoy. It’s frequently cited as a great alternative to soda or full-sugar juices, especially for special occasions or as a fun, low-guilt treat.
4. True Lemon, Fruit Punch Packets Low Sugar No Preservatives
True Lemon Kids Fruit Punch packets are a genius solution for encouraging water intake while adding a delicious, natural flavor. These low-sugar drink mixes are made with simple, non-GMO ingredients, sweetened with stevia and a touch of sugar, and are free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives. Plus, they pack 25% of a child’s daily Vitamin A, C, and E requirements! Just add water for a perfectly portioned, delicious, and healthy drink, making it one of the best drinks for kids who need a little encouragement to drink more water.
Key Features:
- Made from simple, Non-GMO ingredients, sweetened with stevia and a touch of sugar.
- NO artificial sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, or gluten/sodium.
- Colors from natural sources (fruits and vegetables).
- Only 2 grams of sugar per serving (92% less than leading children’s beverages).
- Each serving provides 25% of a child’s daily Vitamin A, C, and E.
- 10 single-serve packets flavor 8 ounces of water.
- Portable for park, school, or travel.
Pros:
- Extremely low in sugar, promoting healthy hydration habits.
- Rich in essential vitamins (A, C, E).
- No artificial ingredients, a clean choice for health-conscious parents.
- Highly portable and environmentally friendly (less waste than pre-packaged drinks).
- Great way to encourage kids to drink more water.
Cons:
- Requires mixing with water, which might be less convenient than a ready-to-drink pouch.
- Kids might initially prefer the stronger sweetness of other options.
User Impressions: Parents love these packets for their clean ingredients and how effective they are at getting kids to drink more water without the sugar overload. They are particularly praised for travel and school, offering a healthy and customizable drink option.
5. Mott’s Active Blastin’ Berry Hydrating Juice Beverage
Designed with active kids in mind, Mott’s Active Blastin’ Berry is a hydrating juice beverage that helps replenish without the added sugar. Featuring naturally sourced electrolytes, it’s a smart choice for rehydrating after a fun-filled play session or sports practice. You can trust Mott’s, a brand known for its quality, to deliver a delicious taste kids love while providing the hydration they need to keep their energy up, making it a great alternative to sugary sports drinks.
Key Features:
- Contains naturally sourced electrolytes for active kids.
- No added sugar.
- Great taste in Blastin’ Berry (also available in Watermelon Burst).
- Gluten-free, caffeine-free, Kosher.
- No artificial flavors or sweeteners.
- From a trusted brand since 1842.
Pros:
- Formulated to help with hydration, especially for active children.
- No added sugar is a significant benefit.
- Contains natural electrolytes, a healthier alternative to many sports drinks.
- Good taste that satisfies kids.
- Free from artificial ingredients.
Cons:
- While hydrating, it might not offer as many vitamins as some other fortified options.
- Still a juice blend, so moderation is key.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate this drink as a healthier choice for their energetic children, especially after outdoor activities. They frequently mention the great taste and the absence of added sugar as key reasons for repeat purchases.
6. Honest Kids Super Fruit Punch Organic Fruit Juice Drink
Honest Kids Super Fruit Punch stands out for its commitment to organic purity and natural sweetness. This delightful organic fruit juice drink is sweetened only with organic fruit juice, meaning no added sugar, no high-fructose corn syrup, and no artificial sweeteners whatsoever. It’s an excellent source of Vitamin C and comes in a convenient, lunchbox-friendly pouch. For parents prioritizing organic choices and truly natural sweetness, this is a top-tier contender for the best drinks for kids.
Key Features:
- USDA organic certified.
- Sweetened ONLY with organic fruit juice, no added sugar.
- Excellent source of Vitamin C.
- No high-fructose corn syrup, no artificial sweeteners.
- Convenient, lunchbox-friendly pouch.
- Organic juice pouches are recyclable through TerraCycle program.
Pros:
- Fully organic and naturally sweetened, offering a clean label.
- No added sugar provides peace of mind for health-conscious parents.
- Good source of Vitamin C for immune support.
- Eco-friendly with its recyclable pouches.
- Great taste for kids who enjoy natural fruit flavors.
Cons:
- The taste might be less sweet than some children are accustomed to if they typically drink highly sweetened beverages.
- Can be pricier than non-organic options.
User Impressions: Parents who are committed to organic living and low-sugar diets consistently praise Honest Kids for its natural ingredients and genuine fruit taste. They love that it’s a “no-compromise” option for their children’s hydration needs.
7. Mott’s Mighty Flying Fruit Punch Juice Drink
Mott’s Mighty Flying Fruit Punch is designed to give your child’s immune system a boost while satisfying their thirst with a delicious, fruit-packed flavor. Fortified with vitamins A, C, and E, it’s a proactive choice for daily wellness. What’s more, it boasts no added sugar and 50% less sugar than 100% apple juice, making it a healthier alternative for fruit juice lovers. It’s a fantastic everyday option to help support their health and keep them happily hydrated.
Key Features:
- Fortified with vitamins A, C, & E to help support a healthy immune system.
- No added sugar.
- 50% less sugar than 100% apple juice.
- Packed with full, delicious fruit flavor.
- Gluten-free, Kosher, and contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners.
- Thirst-quenching refreshment for any time of day.
Pros:
- Offers immune system support through added vitamins.
- Significantly reduced sugar content compared to traditional juices.
- Great taste that kids love, from a trusted brand.
- Free from artificial ingredients.
- A good way to introduce vitamins into their diet.
Cons:
- While lower in sugar, it’s still a juice drink and not as low in sugar as plain water or water-based mixes.
- Some kids might prefer other flavors.
User Impressions: Parents highly recommend Mott’s Mighty for its immune-boosting properties and reduced sugar content. It’s a popular choice for families looking for a daily juice option that offers health benefits without going overboard on sweetness.
Making Smart Drink Choices: Expert Tips
Beyond specific products, remember that plain water should always be the primary drink for children. These other children’s beverages are fantastic additions, offering nutrients and variety, but they shouldn’t replace water entirely. Encourage water intake throughout the day, especially before offering other drinks. Diluting juices with water can also be a great strategy to reduce sugar intake while still providing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the healthiest drink for kids?
A: Hands down, water is the healthiest drink for kids. It’s essential for all bodily functions, contains no sugar or calories, and is readily available. For variety and added nutrients, options like unsweetened milk (dairy or fortified plant-based), or low-sugar fruit juice (in moderation) can be beneficial.
Q2: How much water should kids drink daily?
A: The amount varies by age, activity level, and climate. Generally, toddlers (1-3 years) need around 4-6 glasses (1-1.5 liters) daily, while older children (4-8 years) need about 5-8 glasses (1.2-2 liters). Active kids or those in hot weather will need more. The best indicator is their urine; it should be light yellow or clear.
Q3: Are fruit juices good for kids?
A: Fruit juices can provide vitamins, but they also contain natural sugars and lack the fiber of whole fruit. Pediatricians generally recommend limiting 100% fruit juice to 4-6 ounces (about half a cup) per day for children aged 1-6, and 8 ounces for older children. Always opt for 100% juice without added sugars, and consider diluting it with water.
Q4: What are good sugar-free options for kids?
A: Besides water, great sugar-free options include sparkling water (plain or flavored with natural fruit slices), herbal teas (caffeine-free and unsweetened), or low-sugar drink mixes like the True Lemon packets reviewed above. Many brands now offer zero-sugar versions of popular kid drinks, like Kool-Aid Jammers 0%.
Q5: How can I get my picky eater to drink healthier?
A: Start with small changes. Gradually dilute their favorite sugary drinks with water. Offer choices, like “Do you want water with lemon or cucumber?” Make healthy drinks fun with colorful straws, ice cubes, or special cups. Lead by example and make healthy hydration a family habit. Smoothies made with fruit, veggies, and milk/yogurt are also excellent for picky eaters.
Q6: Are sports drinks suitable for children?
A: Generally, no. Sports drinks are formulated for adult athletes engaged in intense, prolonged physical activity (typically over an hour) to replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates. For most children, water is sufficient for hydration during and after play. Sports drinks often contain high amounts of sugar and artificial ingredients that are unnecessary for kids.
Q7: What about dairy milk or milk alternatives?
A: Milk (dairy or fortified plant-based options like soy, almond, or oat milk) is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, crucial for growing bones and muscles. Children aged 1-2 typically need whole milk, while older children can switch to low-fat or skim milk. Choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.
Conclusion
Choosing the best drinks for kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With so many fantastic options available that prioritize health, natural ingredients, and low sugar content, it’s easier than ever to keep your children hydrated and happy. From protein-packed shakes to vitamin-fortified juices and ingenious water enhancers, there’s a perfect drink out there for every child’s taste and every parent’s peace of mind. Remember, healthy habits start young, and making smart drink choices is a big step towards a healthier, brighter future for your little ones. Cheers to healthy hydration!