Knowing if your child is dehydrated is crucial—especially during hot weather, illness, or high activity. Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, and kids can be especially vulnerable.
🚨 Common Signs of Dehydration in Children
💦 Mild to Moderate Dehydration
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Dry lips or mouth
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Fewer wet diapers (for babies) or peeing less often (older kids)
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Dark yellow urine
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Tiredness or low energy
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Irritability or crankiness
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Cool, dry skin
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Headache
🔴 Severe Dehydration (Seek medical help immediately)
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No urination for 8+ hours
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Very dry mouth or tongue
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Sunken eyes or cheeks
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Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) in babies
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Rapid heartbeat or breathing
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Extreme fussiness or sleepiness
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Limp or unresponsive behavior
🧃 How to Rehydrate a Child
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Offer small sips of water or oral rehydration solution (like Pedialyte)
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For babies under 6 months: breast milk or formula only—don’t give plain water without doctor guidance
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Avoid sugary drinks or sodas—they can make it worse
💡 Tip:
Teach kids to drink regularly—not just when they feel thirsty. Encourage water before, during, and after play, especially in heat or after illness.