Nearly 50% of adults in the United States do not drink enough water. The human body consists of about 60% water, and if you don’t drink enough water, dehydration can have a variety of effects on the body. Studies show that dehydration can even impair aspects of brain function.

Upon observation, youth in Lawrence County don’t drink nearly enough water. Children are often seen carrying around sugary drinks such as soda and juices. Children take behaviors and habits learned in childhood into adulthood, and if children learn proper water consumption habits now, it will carry with them throughout life and result in healthier living all around. This is how the ‘Re-Think Your Drink” challenge originated! Fallsburg Elementary 4^th and 5^th grade students participated in a 3-month long water intake challenge. All 55 students received their own water 16 oz water bottle. At the end of each month, if each student completed their intake goal, they received the prize for that month. Over 90% of students met their goal each month and said they consumed more water because of this challenge! This program was such a success and we plan to incorporate it into more schools in this upcoming program year.