The kids and I have always loved the varieties that Gatorade has to offer. When we’re out at the beach, playing at the park or attending some outdoor function; we’ll stop at a convenient store, on the way there, and grab a bottle or two for each of us (depending on how long we plan on being out).

Not one of the flavors they choose is ever the same. The girls usually look at all the pretty colors and pick the one they want based on what color looks the brightest or tastiest at the time. If dad runs in and we stay in the car; he’ll ask the girls what color they want. I don’t even think they know half the names of the flavors they drink. They just want the pretty colors.

As funny as this is; I’m just happy that they enjoy drinking Gatorade and that, 99% of the times, they request Gatorade over all other drinks. Plus, I know that they’re staying hydrated while being outdoors.

I could probably talk to you for hours about how the family and I enjoy drinking Gatorade, but I won’t. The real reason for this post is to spread the word about educating parents, coaches and young athletes about the importance of proper hydration. We ‘moms’ play a key role in keeping our kids (and little athletes) safe. It’s important to remember that young athletes may be at greater risk of heat-related illness so we need to know how to prevent it. We also need to remember that, sometimes, water just isn’t enough. While water is great for everyone; it doesn’t hydrate and refuel as effectively when the kids are exerting so much energy into their sport activities.

Though I’ve never really had a problem getting my kids to drink, occasionally I myself have to be reminded that I’m outside, it’s hot and I need to hydrate myself before I fall over from heat exhaustion…or something worse. This really is something we all need to prevent (from happening to our children or ourselves).

More about Gatorade’s “Beat the Heat”:

The Beat the Heat program unites a number of outstanding organizations whose goal is to reduce the number of heat-related injuries by engaging parents, coaches and players,” said Jennifer Storms, vice president of sports and event marketing for Gatorade. “Our shared commitment is a great way to educate on how to prevent heat related tragedies nationwide.”

Research conducted by the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI) found that as many as 70 percent of high school football players could show up for practice inadequately hydrated. The recommendation of drinking fluids prior to practice increased the number of players appearing to be adequately hydrated upon arrival to practice. Scientific research has shown that dehydration or poor hydration increases the risk for heat illness. (read more)

To Help the cause:

**download a free Gatorade Heat Safety Kit found here. For every unique download; Gatorade will donate $1 to “Beat the Heat” charities (up to $20,000) **

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Gatorade’s “Beat the Heat” campaign and received Gatorade samples to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate