The sun’s made an appearance this week and we’ve all been dusting off the barbecues or chilling out in the garden.
More than likely a cold beer, fruity cocktail or chilled glass of wine is hitting the spot as an accompaniment.
But what should we serve the younger guests during these warmer months?
After all, steering children away from sugar-filled fizzy drinks isn’t the easiest and the last thing you want is a battle over beverages when you’re trying to enjoy the sunshine.
Fear not, as here at Living we have a few ideas for your youngsters to try something different.
Iced tea
A healthy substitute for squash or juice, iced tea is a good way to stay cool and hydrated.
Small & Wild happy herbal teas have been blended especially for kids so they’re low in sugar and combine fruits and herbs to create plenty of flavour.
The Merry Tiger blend is packed with pear, mango and raspberry, while Jolly Croc’s includes banana, sweet strawberry and apple.
They are available to buy as a duo from Ocado and Amazon.
Ice-cream soda
A simple ice-cream soda is easy to make and the kids will love getting involved with this one.
Just put a couple of scoops into a glass of lemonade and mix it up with a spoon and you’re good to go.
Trying out different flavours of ice-cream will keep the excitement up and letting little ones mix it up themselves will keep them occupied for a few minutes.
Fruit smoothie
Delicious, fruity and the perfect way to ensure your children get their daily quota of healthy fruit, a smoothie is ideal.
With lots of options and recipes available you can adapt it to suit it to your youngsters’ discerning tastes.
Whether it’s strawberries and raspberries with plenty of ice, banana and peanut butter with almond milk, or some blueberries with yoghurt, throw it all into the blender and you’re good to go.
There are so many recipes and options available, you’re bound to find something to please even the fussiest of appetites.
Fruit-infused water
An alternative to smoothies, fruit-infused water is another good way to avoid the sugary options.
Layer a jug with ice, then add in strawberries and a few slices of lemon, before filling the rest of the jug with water and leaving it in the fridge.
You could also use mason jars to infuse the water. Try adding strawberries, fresh pineapple and basil leaves, along with water.
There are also plenty of water bottles with infusers in them. Another fruity recipe includes adding cherries, blueberries and a sliced lime for a thirst-quenching beverage.
