WATER CONCERN
Dear Dr.Bear,
Our doctor told us it is OK to give our 4-month old up to 4 ounces of water per day. With formula, once he drinks from a bottle, we have to discard it within an hour. Is it the same with water, or can he sip from his water bottle throughout the course of the day until he finishes it?
Sincerely,
Fresh Water Worries
Dear Fresh Water,
It is best that you keep it chilled or you will allow germs --bacteria--to grow in the water, and these can be bad for the baby. This is especially true in the summer hot months. Try to change the water several times if not used in 2 hours. You do not need to sterilize any longer which means you can refill from the tap without any problem.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bear