Kids have a bad habit of just grabbing what ever is convenient for them to drink. They do not think about what is in that can of soda, just that it taste good. But you are the one who has to hear them complain about going to the dentist when they have cavities from these sugary drinks.
So what is a parent to do, well fortunately we live in a world that has addressed the issue of child obesity and rotting teeth. Grocery and convenience stores have started carrying a wider variety of healthy drinks for our kids.
Juice
Sunny D Smooth Style - this juice has got the highest sugar content in the whole aisle of juices. 60 grams of sugar in one serving and hardly any actual juice in it. It is 95% high fructose corn syrup. A good alternative is the Capri Sun Roaring Waters, they are flavored water with only 9 grams of sugar per pouch.
Related: Let's Drink Water
Milkshakes
Milkshakes are loaded with sugar and saturated fats. These are not good things to be putting down your child's throat. Instead of a milk shake loaded with pounds of sugar try a V8 fusion. These are a great way to have a smoothie plus get all your helping of veggies and fruits.
Sodas
There is never a good time for a child to have soda. Not only does soda have loads of sugar in them, but the acid in them can help erode the enamel on their teeth. Instead of having a soda, why don't you try a orange mango juice. These are a great way to help boost your energy with less sugar.
Related: Zespri Yogurt Drink
Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk is good for your kids, if you get the right one. Now the Nesquik milk has 60 grams of sugar in them plus 6 grams of saturated fat in an 8 ounce serving, which is only half the size of the bottle they sell. So if you child is like most kids, they will want to drink the whole thing. So turn to a low-fat chocolate milk, this will cut down on the sugars and fat, plus many times you can find them size that are better proportioned.
Floats
Everyone loves an ice cream float, they taste good while you are drinking them. But look at all the sugar and acid is swishing around you kids mouth. Instead of drinking the float, try having some ice cream blended with orange juice, or any other juice your child likes.
Kids are going to learn from example, so ultimately it is up to us parents to make them see the difference. We should always try and practice what we preach to our children. Sometimes parents tend to forget that children learn by what they see. So if they see us eating healthy and making better food choices they will follow. In the long run you will see the rewards of your efforts.
Related: Recommended Water Intake For Preschooler's