A drink problem? - Are our children drinking enough?

The latest research shows that most school children are not drinking enough water, causing problems with health and behaviour, and affecting learning ability. Common symptoms such as tiredness, irritability and headaches have been attributed to lack of water. Even small levels of dehydration can have an effect on mental performance. One study showed that pupils ability to do arithmetic was impaired if they were between 1-2% dehydrated - a common condition. Urinary infections and bedwetting problems have also been linked to insufficient water intake.

Children need to be encouraged to drink healthier fluids, in far greater quantities, regularly throughout the day. A recent survey by the children's medical charity, the Enuresis Resource & Information Centre (ERIC) reveals that 10% of schools provide no drinking water apart from at mealtimes. Those that do, offer unsatisfactory or restricted supplies. Many only have two water fountains (often sited in the toilets and in a filthy condition) for several hundred pupils.

The legal requirements for schools are very vague "a school shall have a wholesome supply of water for domestic purposes, including a supply of drinking water…" - a standpipe of the sports field could be deemed adequate. The average ten year old child should drink at least two pints of fluids a day and up to six pints if they are exercising in hot weather.

There is a call for education and health officials to review the provision of drinking water in schools. Realistically, real change will only happen with greater awareness and call for action from parents. Find out what your facilities your child's school offers and be prepared to take action if you are not happy with them.

For further information on the water campaign visit www.eric.org.uk