Is it Safe to Give Tea to Children?
![Is it Safe to Give Tea to Children?](http://www.bruutea.co.uk/cdn/shop/articles/Is-tea-healthy-for-children.gif?v=1574685188&width=1600)
Yes. We have always lauded that tea is healthy for us adults. It brings on positive effects on the body, our mood and our well-being as a whole.
But have any of you thought of tea for your kids? Are you giving them tea when they ask for it?
I have and aside from turning my tea time into a question and answer portion, I personally do not see any negative effect of teas on my child (she started at 7 years old and still growing!). In fact, it has become one of our bonding moments, having tea after a day in school or a rainy afternoon and we do not want to venture outside.
One thing to remember – stay away from the caffeinated teas, these are your traditional teas. Caffeine has always been a no-no for children, so please take note of that.
I started my daughter on green tea. A very weak version of a green tea I might add. Green tea has a number of positive effects – which have been discussed in our previous blog – but healthy gums and teeth are one of them.
Teabags or loose leaf?
I would be honest – I started her with a teabag. She just wanted to join me one afternoon and I was unsure how she would like the taste, so I dipped the teabag and have it a minute to steep and gave it to her. She liked it enough that I lost my quiet time.
But whether it is tea bags or loose-leaf, it doesn’t matter, to be honest. Steeping it for 2-3 minutes sounds about good, if it appears stronger --- just add extra water to dilute it. Add a bit of honey, depending on your child’s palate.
What does tea do for children?
The effect of tea is almost the same for adults and children –
- It helps relieve stress and anxiety after a hectic day at school
- It helps with digestion and if your child has a problem with constipation, use flaxseed tea.
- Relief from cough, you can give your child some peppermint or chamomile tea
- Relief from fever, giving your child a warm cup of tea promotes quick perspiration and helps to get rid of the chills
- Cure for an upset stomach
What type of tea can I give my child?
Based on my experience, I have done quite a bit of research as I fear I have started the wrong habit for my child. After giving her the weak versions of the tea that I drink, I moved on to fruit-based teas.
Below are some teas that I have tried for my child –
Aside from the variety of flavours – these teas have health benefits that can help when your child is feeling a little bit under the weather.
If you are a parent, who asked the same question as I did years ago – I would say, give it a try. As for me, I started a good habit with my child.
My quiet time became a question and answer portion of the day, and now as she grows into a young lady – it has become one of our bonding moments. Don’t miss out on these special moments with your child – even if it’s just sharing a cup of tea.
Leave a comment