Toddlers are particularly susceptible to dehydration, especially when running a fever or experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Excessive perspiration also leads to loss of fluids and an electrolyte imbalance. When they're ill, dehydrated, overheated or otherwise fussy, toddlers aren't likely to drink enough to replace lost fluids and electrolytes on their own, requiring parental intervention. While water is the best way to replenish fluids, other liquids must replenish electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate. Dehydration quickly becomes serious in young children, so consult your pediatrician before attempting home treatment and to determine whether your toddler might need emergency intravenous treatment.
Step 1
Dilute your toddler's favorite 100 percent fruit juice with an equal amount of water and encourage him to drink. This replenishes fluids and electrolytes while keeping sugar intake in check. Avoid orange juice or other acidic beverage if your toddler was vomiting, though, because they irritate the throat. Start with just water if your child was vomiting to make sure he can keep fluids down.
Step 2
Give your toddler a children's electrolyte replacement beverage. Start with 1 to 2 tsp. every 10 minutes if your child was vomiting or has an upset stomach, and continue gradually until you've given the recommended serving.
Step 3
Freeze diluted 100 percent fruit juice or a pediatric electrolyte replacement beverage in an ice cube tray or ice pop molds if your child isn't willingly taking in fluids. A toddler may be more receptive to a frozen treat than a drink. Store-bought ice pops made with real fruit juice are another option.
Step 4
Feed your toddler a mild, simple soup made with a clear broth to replace lost fluids, sodium and other electrolytes. Crumble plain crackers into the soup if your child is ill and they make it more appealing to him.
Step 5
Encourage your toddler to stay calm and still if he's sick or if it's particularly hot or humid to prevent perspiration and further loss of fluids and electrolytes. Read books, watch a movie or choose indoor activities that hold his interest.
Step 6
Remove most of your toddler's clothing to minimize sweating from heat or a fever. Wrap him in a light blanket, but don't bundle him up, if he develops chills.
Step 7
Treat a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher with a children's fever reducing medication. Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but never give a child aspirin. Follow all package directions and warnings, as well as any instructions from your pediatrician for treating your child with these medications.
Things You'll Need
- 100 percent fruit juice
- Pediatric electrolyte replacement beverage
- Ice cube tray or ice pop mold
- Clear soup
- Crackers
References
- MedlinePlus; Electrolytes; Aug. 2009
- University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview: Dehydration, Preventing (Infant/Toddler)
- BabyCenter: Dehydration
- BabyCenter: Vomiting
- FamilyDoctor.org; Vomiting and Diarrhea in Children; January 1999
- California Pacific Medical Center: Caring for Your Child's Fever
