As parents, ensuring our children make healthy choices, even when we’re not around is one of our top priorities. One key area where this comes into play? The drinks they choose at school.
Why Hydration Matters for Kids
Children are active, growing, and learning all day long. Proper hydration supports:
- Better concentration and mental clarity
- Healthy digestion and metabolism
- Energy levels for play and learning
But not all drinks are created equal, especially what’s available at school.
The School Drink Dilemma in Australia
Many Australian schools offer a variety of beverages: plain water, sugar-sweetened drinks, flavored milk, sodas, and increasingly, iced teas and herbal infusions. The catch? Many popular options are high in added sugars or artificial flavors, contributing to rising rates of childhood obesity and dental issues.
Common School Drink Options:
Drink Type |
Hydration Quality |
Sugar Content |
Health Impact |
Water |
Excellent |
0 g |
Best choice! |
Sugary Soft Drinks |
Low-Moderate |
High |
Not recommended |
Flavored Milk |
Moderate |
Moderate-High |
High in sugar |
Juice Boxes |
Moderate |
High |
Limited benefit |
Iced Teas* |
Good-Excellent |
Low-None |
Healthy with right brand |
All iced teas are not equal, always check the label!
What Should Parents Look for in a School Drink?
- Low or No Added Sugar: Natural flavors, not sugar-laden “fruit drinks.”
- Simple, Clean Ingredients: Free from artificial sweeteners and colors.
- Appealing Taste: So kids actually WANT to choose the healthy option!
-
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Sustainable packaging means healthier kids and a healthier planet.
Why Tea Industries Makes the Grade
Tea Industries stands out for parents seeking a genuinely healthy hydration option for their kids at school:
1. Naturally Refreshing Flavors
Blended from high-quality tea leaves and botanicals, Tea Industries beverages offer vibrant taste without excess sugar or artificial additives.
2. Low or No Sugar Options
Their ready-to-drink teas and infusions are crafted to be naturally low in sugar, many varieties with zero added sweeteners. Perfect for kids’ lunchboxes or canteen shelves.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Tea is loaded with natural antioxidants, supporting kids’ immune systems and overall health.
4. Child-Friendly Choices
From light fruit infusions to classic black or green teas (with lower caffeine alternatives), there’s something every child can enjoy.
5. Sustainable, Safe Packaging
Tea Industries is committed to eco-friendly materials, so you don’t have to worry about harmful plastics or excess waste.
Tips to Encourage Healthier Hydration
- Make It Easy: Prep a reusable bottle with their favorite Tea Industries drink or water every morning.
- Read Labels Together: Teach your child what to look for—low sugar, natural ingredients.
- Support Your School: Suggest Tea Industries options to the canteen manager or school admin.
The Takeaway
Hydration doesn’t have to mean boring or unhealthy. With a little guidance, your child can choose drinks that are both delicious and good for them. And with Tea Industries school-friendly, low-sugar iced teas, you’ll send your child to class equipped for health, focus, and flavor, one sip at a time.