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Calculate daily fluid requirements for children using the Holliday-Segar method.
The Holliday-Segar method is the gold standard for calculating maintenance fluid requirements in children. Developed in 1957, this formula accounts for the relationship between metabolic rate and body weight, recognizing that smaller children have proportionally higher fluid needs per kilogram than larger children. The method uses a weight-based calculation: 100 mL/kg/day for the first 10 kg of body weight, 50 mL/kg/day for the next 10 kg (11-20 kg), and 20 mL/kg/day for each kilogram above 20 kg. This tiered approach reflects the reality that metabolic rate doesn't scale linearly with weight.
Proper hydration is essential for children's health, supporting circulation, temperature regulation, nutrient transport, waste removal, and cellular function. Dehydration can occur quickly in children due to their higher metabolic rates and larger body surface area relative to weight. Fluid needs increase with fever, diarrhea, vomiting, hot weather, and increased physical activity. The Holliday-Segar calculation provides baseline maintenance needs for healthy children under normal conditions and may need adjustment for medical conditions, environmental factors, or illness.
Offer Water Regularly: Make water available throughout the day, especially during meals and activity
Increase with Activity: Provide extra fluids before, during, and after physical activity
Monitor During Illness: Increase fluids with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea; use oral rehydration solutions if needed
Hydrating Foods: Offer water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and soups
Limit Sugary Drinks: Water and milk should be primary beverages; limit juice to 4-6 oz daily
Check Urine Color: Pale yellow indicates good hydration; dark yellow suggests more fluids needed
Yes, all beverages contribute to hydration including milk, juice, and soup broth. However, water should be the primary beverage. Foods with high water content also contribute to hydration. Caffeinated beverages have a mild diuretic effect but still provide net hydration.
Children should drink 5-9 oz of water every 20 minutes during physical activity. Before activity, offer 3-8 oz depending on age. After activity, replace fluid losses (roughly 16-24 oz per pound lost through sweat). For activities over 1 hour, consider sports drinks to replace electrolytes.
Yes, though rare, water intoxication (hyponatremia) can occur if children drink excessive amounts rapidly, diluting blood sodium levels. Stick to recommended amounts and don't force children to drink beyond thirst under normal conditions. This is more concerning during endurance activities.
Infants under 6 months typically don't need water - breast milk or formula provides adequate hydration. Offer small amounts of water only if recommended by your pediatrician, such as during extreme heat. Excessive water can interfere with nutrient absorption from milk.
Well-hydrated children urinate every 6-8 hours with pale yellow urine, have moist lips and mouth, produce tears when crying, and have normal energy levels. Skin should spring back quickly when gently pinched. Consistently dark urine or infrequent urination suggests inadequate hydration.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator provides fluid requirement estimates for healthy children under normal conditions using the Holliday-Segar method. Actual needs vary based on activity level, climate, health status, and individual factors. Children with medical conditions (kidney disease, heart problems, etc.) may require different fluid management. Seek immediate medical attention for signs of severe dehydration. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized hydration recommendations.