With so many sodas, juices, and other beverage items around, it can be hard to get kids to drink water.  So here are a few simple tricks that will make them and you want to drink more water.

Growing up I despised water.  I went out of my way to avoid drinking it.  I would make extra sweet tea or Kool Aid, but most of I had a Coke in my hand.  I still drink a ton of sodas.  Once I became a mom, I decided that I was going to go out of my way to teach my son healthy habits.  And one thing I enforce is the drinking of water.

But I don't want to deprive him so I have come up with some great ways to make water a special treat for him.  This not only gives him options, but the whole family loves the different flavors.  It has gotten even me to drink more water.

Here are some things I do to make water more enjoyable.  Try them and I promise you'll love them.

1. Lemon and Strawberries

I try to find the best fruits so that they have the best flavor.  I get the strawberries and lemon and cut them into semi-thin slices.  I put them at the bottom of the container and gently smash them.  You don't want to mush them, but gently push on them so that a little of their natural juice comes out.  Then top it with ice and cold water.  Let it set in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes before drinking.  This allows the flavors to mix in the water.

2. Cucumber, Lime, and Lemon

This sounds a little odd, but it is so refreshing.  You do the same thing and slice them up.  Place them at the bottom of the container and smash them gently.  Again, do not mush them.  Top with ice and cold water and let them set in your fridge for about 45 minutes.

3. Blackberry and Sage

First add the sage leaves to jar and gently bruise them.  Then add blackberries and press and twist to release their juices.  Add ice and cold water.  Then refrigerate for about 45 minutes.

4. Strawberry and Kiwi

You do the same thing you would for the other recipes.  Gently push on the fruit to bring out some of the natural juices.  I do peel the kiwis, lol.  Then top with ice and cold water.  Refrigerate for about 45 minutes before you drink.

5. All Citrus

On this water, I use oranges, limes and lemons.  Slices them semi-thin and cut in half.  Then gently push down to release some of the juices.  Top with ice and cold water and refrigerate.

With all of these recipes, be sure to WASH FRUIT THOROUGHLY!  You don't want your nice water to be contaminated by bacteria or other gross things.  And make sure that the container you are using has a tight fitting lid.  The lid helps keep all the good nutrients from the fruit in the water.

These are just some of the recipes I have.  I also do a pineapple mint flavor, a raspberry lime, a watermelon and rosemary, or any other flavors you think work well together.  Once made, these waters can last up to 4 days in your refrigerator but mine never last that long.  :)

This is such a great way to drink water.  It's all natural without added sugar.  Enjoy!

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