Thus, they are less inclined to give their children caffeinated beverages and will opt for beverages such as milk and juice. D., R.D., a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association and an assistant professor of Pediatrics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. While a toddler's intake of caffeinated products and beverages is limited, a school-age child has a wider variety to choose from. The International Food Information Council states school-age children consume 35 to 40 mg of caffeine a day. There's no evidence that caffeine in a moderate amount in children affects growth or is associated with any behavioral problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Children are no more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than adults.
Hogan says what constitutes a normal amount depends on the individual child. With an adult, you say your sensitivity depends on the amount you ingest, how often you take it, your weight and your physical condition. This should apply for a child as well. Commonly Used by Jean Pennington, 16th edition 1994. All rights reserved.