Natural Childbirth: The Bradley Method
Jan 14, 2025By Dr. Akanksha Priya
When the temperature drops and tiny noses turn pink, nothing beats wrapping those little hands around a warm mug of something delicious. Let's explore some wonderful kids' hot drinks that aren't just tasty but pack a nutritional punch, too!
Why Are Hot Drinks Great for Kids?
Hot drinks are not just about warmth; they are also packed with nutrients that help boost immunity, improve mood, and keep kids hydrated. During the winter months, when colds and flu are more common, these beverages play an important role in maintaining good health. Plus, they can be a fun way to introduce kids to new flavors and ingredients.
Hot Chocolate
Let's start our warm beverage adventure with some classic favorites. Hot chocolate is probably the first thing that pops into mind when thinking about kids' hot drinks. But here's the trick – skip the pre-made packets and create your own with pure cocoa powder, milk, and a touch of honey. This way, your little ones get calcium, protein, and antioxidants minus the excessive sugar and artificial additives.
Ragi Badam Malt with Jaggery
Have you heard of Ragi Badam Malt with Jaggery? It's like a warm hug in a cup! Ragi (finger millet) is packed with calcium and iron, while almonds bring protein and healthy fats to the party. The jaggery adds natural sweetness and is rich in minerals – way better than refined sugar!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons ragi flour
- 1 cup water or milk
- 2 tablespoons almond powder
- 1-2 tablespoons jaggery (to taste)
- A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, mix ragi flour with water or milk.
- Cook on low heat while stirring continuously. (until it thickens)
- Add almond powder, jaggery, and cardamom powder.
- Stir well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Serve warm!
Kesar Badam Milk
Kesar Badam Milk is another Indian superstar among kids' hot drinks. Saffron (kesar) isn't just fancy – it's known to improve mood and concentration. Combined with milk and almonds, it becomes a golden brew that children actually enjoy drinking.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 30 almonds
- 1 tsp saffron strands
- ¼ cup sugar (or jaggery)
- 5 pods of green cardamom (powdered)
- 1 cup water (to soak almonds)
Instructions:
- Soak your almonds in hot water for about 20 minutes.
- Soak the saffron strands in a little warm milk for about 20 minutes.
- Peel the soaked almonds and blend them with a little milk to make a fine paste.
- In a saucepan, boil the remaining milk.
- Add the paste to the boiling milk and stir well.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Add saffron-infused milk, sugar (or jaggery), and cardamom powder; stir well.
- Serve warm, garnished with slivered almonds or pistachios.
This drink is packed with antioxidants and helps improve immunity.
Kadha: The Herbal Remedy
For those sniffly days, traditional Kadha comes to the rescue. Don't worry – you can make a kid-friendly version!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1-inch piece of ginger (sliced)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 teaspoon tulsi leaves (holy basil)
- Honey or jaggery (to taste)
Instructions:
- Boil water in a saucepan (copper pots if available).
- Add ginger, black pepper, cloves, and tulsi leaves.
- Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Strain your mixture into a cup and sweeten with honey or jaggery if desired.
Kadha is excellent for boosting immunity and fighting off seasonal colds—perfect for those winter sniffles!
Kashmiri Kahwa
For something a bit different, try Kashmiri Kahwa! This tea is made by brewing green tea leaves with spices like cardamom and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon green tea leaves
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cardamom pods (crushed)
- Honey or sugar (to taste)
- Chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
- Boil water in a saucepan along with cinnamon and cardamom.
- Once boiling, add green tea leaves and let it steep for about 5 minutes.
- Strain into cups and sweeten it with honey or sugar if desired.
- Garnish with chopped nuts before serving.
It’s warm and soothing—ideal for chilly evenings!
Masala Chai: A Kid-Friendly Version
Masala chai is a beloved beverage in many Indian households. It's especially great for picky eaters who need something to warm up their tummies before meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons tea leaves
- 1 cup milk
- A pinch of ginger powder
- A pinch of cardamom powder
- Sugar or jaggery (to taste)
Instructions:
- Boil water in a saucepan.
- Add tea leaves, ginger powder, and cardamom powder; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add milk and sweetener; bring to a boil again.
- Strain into cups and serve hot.
This drink not only warms up little tummies but also introduces them to the wonderful world of spices.
Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk)
Turmeric milk is another fantastic kids hot drink option.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- A pinch of black pepper
- Honey or jaggery (to taste)
Instructions:
- In your saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat.
- Add turmeric powder and black pepper; stir well.
- Sweeten with honey or jaggery as desired.
- Bring to a gentle boil before serving warm.
This drink is known for its anti-inflammatory properties—great for overall health during winter!
Things to Remember!
Safety first, though! When preparing hot drinks for kids, always remember:
- Test the temperature before serving
- Use natural sweeteners in moderation
- Start with mild spice levels
- Supervise younger children while they're drinking
- Use sturdy cups with handles
Want to make these drinks extra special? Try these fun serving ideas:
- Use colorful heat-safe cups
- Add a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon art on top
- Float a small marshmallow in chocolate drinks
- Use fun paper straws for drinks that aren't too hot
- Create "coffee shop" moments at home with special cups just for warm drinks
Conclusion
As winter wraps its chilly arms around us, these nutritious and delicious beverages become our cozy companions. Whether it's a classic hot chocolate or a traditional Indian drink, these warm sips help maintain good health while making winter more enjoyable for our little ones. So, go ahead and start exploring these wonderful options – your kids might just discover their new favorite winter drink!
