To drink or not to drink: Should we allow children to drink coffee?

As parents, coffee has become a daily staple that gives us the boost we need to kick-start our day. But do your kids ask you if they can try it? Maybe they want to try it out of curiosity or maybe because they want to copy your routine. 

However, the idea of allowing our kids to consume coffee, given the caffeine content and other potential negative effects, can be somewhat concerning. So, it’s natural to question whether kids can drink coffee or if it should be avoided altogether. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of caffeine and its potential negative effects on children, as we try to answer the question- Can kids drink coffee?

Drinking coffee at a young age

Can Kids Drink Coffee: Dangers Behind Drinking Caffeinated Beverages | Image from Pexels

Coffee contains high amounts of caffeine content which makes it a beverage that children under 12 should avoid. Caffeine has a lot of harmful effects on a child’s health. Its effects can differ, with some children being more sensitive to it than others. 

For these reasons, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children avoid caffeine altogether or consume it in very limited amounts.

Keep on scrolling as we share the negative effects of caffeine to your little one.

Negative effects of caffeine to children

Can Kids Drink Coffee: Dangers Behind Drinking Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine can cause insomnia, anxiety, and jitters

These are common negative outcomes associated with caffeine consumption in kids. It has been found to affect the central nervous system which leads to insomnia, anxiety and jitters.

Dehydration

Drinking caffeinated beverages can lead to dehydration due to its diuretic effects, which can have adverse effects on a child’s physical health.

Decrease in appetite and difficulty concentrating

While caffeine is generally considered safe for adults in moderate amounts, children may be more sensitive to its effects due to their smaller body size and developing brains. And consuming too much caffeine affects the child’s appetite and brain process.

Negatively affect bone development in children

Caffeine can interfere with calcium absorption and it can lead to reduced bone mineral density and increase the risk of fractures in growing children.

Coffee alternatives for kids

While some parents might want to allow their children to try small amounts of coffee, it is important to consider alternative options. These include:

Formula or fresh milk Decaffeinated coffee (in small amount) Hot chocolate Milk chocolate Cereal drink Herbal tea (in small amount) Soy milk Almond milk Fruit juices

These are other healthy and yummy choices that you can offer to your kids instead of giving them coffee that might have negative impacts on their health.

Can Kids Drink Coffee: Dangers Behind Drinking Caffeinated Beverages

As adults, it’s our responsibility to lead by example and teach our children how to make healthy beverage choices instead of choosing coffee. There are healthier alternatives that can help kids stay hydrated and energized. It’s important to remember that if you are considering introducing caffeine into their diet, you should think twice! And it is best to consult a healthcare professional to learn more.