When can I give my baby water?

There is little need to give children water in the first several months of life. Young children need either breast milk or formula. Excess water can decrease one’s sodium concentration and lead to seizures. This classic case is of a financially struggling family to opts to dilute their babies formula to save money. I admitted a baby with this classic scenario during my residency. Today, thanks to public education and government provided formula the situation is extremely rare.

In the heat of the summer, water is beneficial to staying well hydrated. Healthy, well grown children can get a small amount of water starting at 4 months. I use the number of ounces per month rule. Meaning a 4 month old can safely have 4 ounces per day. I would encourage water for young children when outside in the summer heat (such as a beach trip, festival or soccer tournament).

Written May 2011 by
Dr. Gordon, Orlando Pediatrician