Eight years back, a reader named Chloe shared a remark that became a parenting mantra for the Cup of Jo community:
“My top parenting tip is, ‘If they are crabby, add water.’ Over the years, this has worked wonderfully for me, and truth be told, with a 14, 10, and eight-year-old, I still apply it. Run a bath, take a shower, water the garden, wash the dog, have a hot drink, have a cold drink… just add water. It succeeds 99% of the time.”
Since that time, the saying has benefited numerous parents, including myself. I recall it nightly, as I bathe my baby Evelynn in our kitchen sink, calming her witching hour temperament. Photo proof above! Here, 11 more readers recount how “just add water” saved the situation…
“This shot wasn’t snapped at summer’s peak but rather in early March, when it was technically too chilly for car washing. But end of the day approached, and I urgently needed an activity to occupy time until my husband returned and I could finally have a break. Adding water was the solution!” — Claire
“My son and I are fortunate to live five minutes from a jetty, so we often stroll over for ‘a few quick flicks’, as he terms it. I read my book or engage in knitting between requests to untangle his fishing line. He enjoys changing his rig every few minutes if there are no bites, so he’s constantly busy chopping up smelly baits and rifling through his tackle box. We seldom catch anything, but it’s a lovely, serene way to unwind together outdoors after a bustling day.” — Lauren
“Whenever the cooped-up feeling of rainy days overwhelms me, I suggest a rain walk. Lately, my kids have been keen to ditch umbrellas and raincoats to see who can get most soaked!” — Jessica
“I have revisited this piece of Cup of Jo wisdom numerous times through the years (both as parenting advice and personally!). Amidst my divorce, whenever seriousness escalated, my daughter and I would head to the beach. This beach picture was captured right in the middle of my separation. We began each day with a sea dip. What a fantasy.” — Christa
“When my kids were small, sensory bins were trending. Rice, beans, and a few toys unfailingly granted me a peaceful moment. One morning, impulsively, I let my toddler ‘water’ my wilting floral collection. What started as a simple outdoor task morphed into a fully immersive rose-petal bath for a very explorative toddler.” — Miranda
“My two-year-old, Beau, merrily sprinting toward the largest puddle after a rainy morning. Tongue out, zero inhibitions, radiantly happy after a visit from his beloved garbage truck. Lightness — in every sense of the term.” — Ginelle
“Every summer, my kids and I undertake an ‘Open to Close Day’ at the science center, library, and public pool. We arrive at opening and remain until we’re ushered out — and pool day invariably is the longest challenge and most fun. We inform our friends they can join us anytime (‘Don’t worry, we’ll be there all day!’). We read and play games, and order pizza for supper. But truly, we’re not required to do much as the kids relish the water and never grow weary!” — Emily O.
“When my eight-year-old is exhausted and moody after school (as she frequently is), I have her take a bath and water ‘the garden’ (mostly weeds). She feels superb afterward!” — Katherine
“Most days, I question why we ever relocated from the city back to my childhood home, in a rural town outside of Oslo. The commute is tedious, and the vast garden requires perpetual maintenance. But then, summer finally arrives in Norway, everything greens up, and the sun doesn’t set. You merely turn on the hose, and the kids, dogs, and plants spring to life — with zero effort on my part.” — Helle
“‘Just add water’ has persisted as one of my most habitual parenting phrases over the years. When our boys were younger, their frequent disagreements led to hurt feelings and rough words. But the bath always brought them back to themselves and each other. Occasionally, an extra enticement was needed (seen here: an egg cream and a cherished hat), but by the time the bubbles vanished and the water cooled, they were both bursting with laughter and ready to face the world together. They’re older now, so bubble baths aren’t frequent anymore. But just last night, my teenager was feeling overwhelmed with school assignments. I accompanied him to the shower, and no further instructions were needed. Thanks Joanna, this one truly never disappoints.” — Purnima
“My son has been frequently ill since we enrolled him in daycare, and this last bout really took a toll — fevers, cough, the entire ordeal. None of us were resting well, and although he appeared to be improving, he remained testy (uncommon for our usually smiling guy!). We purchased a small splash pad, and he was utterly excited while playing! He slept through the night that evening and returned to his cheerful self!” — Rebekah
When have you applied the CoJ parenting advice “just add water” with the kids in your life? We’d love to hear your experiences, xoxo.
P.S. Some of our best insights for new parents and methods to motivate kids to entertain themselves.
**11 Ways Readers Utilize Water in Their Daily Lives**
Water is crucial for sustaining good health and wellness. Numerous readers have discovered creative and effective methods to include water in their daily routines. Here are 11 techniques that can inspire others to stay hydrated and reap the rewards of water:
1. **Morning Hydration Routine**: Beginning the day with a glass of water can stimulate metabolism and rehydrate the body after sleep. Some readers opt to add a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch and an extra dose of vitamin C.
2. **Water Tracking Applications**: Using apps to monitor water consumption helps readers remain accountable and meet daily hydration goals. These apps typically send alerts and allow for personalized targets.
3. **Fruit and Herb Water Infusions**: Enhancing water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables adds flavor and promotes increased consumption. Favored combinations include cucumber and mint or strawberry and basil.
4. **Specialized Water Bottles**: Procuring a high-quality, reusable water bottle facilitates carrying water throughout the day. Many readers select bottles with time indicators to remind themselves to sip regularly.
5. **Tea and Herbal Brews**: For those who enjoy warm drinks, herbal teas are a hydrating substitute for plain water. Varieties such as chamomile, peppermint, or ginger provide additional health advantages.
6. **Foods High in Water Content**: Incorporating foods with high water content, like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, enhances overall hydration. These foods are particularly refreshing during hotter months.
7. **Desk Water Station**: Placing a water pitcher or bottle on one’s desk continuously reminds to drink water while working. This arrangement minimizes disruptions and promotes constant hydration.
8. **Pre-Meal Water Consumption**: Drinking a glass of water prior to meals can assist digestion and help regulate appetite. This approach is especially beneficial for those aiming to manage weight.
9. **Hydration Contests**: Joining hydration contests with friends or online groups offers motivation and support. These challenges typically involve setting daily objectives and sharing progress.
10. **Smart Water Containers**: Some readers invest in intelligent water bottles that track intake and connect to smartphones. These bottles frequently feature lights or notifications to prompt users to drink.
11. **Evening Relaxation with Water**: Concluding the day with a calming glass of water or herbal tea can encourage relaxation and prepare the body for sleep. This routine sustains hydration levels overnight.
Incorporating water into daily routines doesn’t have to be burdensome. By adopting some of these strategies, readers can relish the perks of proper hydration, including enhanced energy levels, improved skin health, and boosted overall well-being.
