Exploring the various cultural implications of coffee in childhood – and dispelling the myths.

Kid Drinking Coffee

Question: How do you react about a children drinking coffee?

Interestingly enough, the answer to this question depends almost entirely on where you were raised. In the United States, a child drinking a cup of coffee would be cause for alarm and looks of disgust at the parent who allowed them the caffeinated beverage. However, parents who were raised in African, European, or Asian countries would hardly bat an eye – why?

Girl drinking coffee

Unlike in the United States, other countries and cultures have incorporated coffee drinking into their children’s lives from a young age, and while that information might be shocking, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children over the age of five are safe to drink coffee. As a cultural expression and community tradition, children in many countries are given coffee in elementary school – often with milk in order to reduce the sharpness and hide the bitterness. Sugar can also be included, though some children might choose to forego both and move directly to pour-over coffee. Despite the myths and the warnings often handed by well-meaning parents throughout the United States, coffee drinking in children, much like everything else in this world, is perfectly safe for children in moderation.

 
 

It will not keep them up all night, it will not stunt their growth, and it will not give them hyperactivity conditions or anxiety. The studies have actually shown that including coffee into the diet of a child at a young age has been directly linked to several health benefits – including drastically reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

So, when you see a child sipping a latte in a café alongside their parent, take a deep breath and rest assured it is both safe and delicious. 

"My children know not to shout before Mummy has warmed herself into something human with her coffee."

Ben Kidron

Boy Drinking Coffee

Written by Lucelia Verardi

More stories

The Origins of Hawaiian Coffee and Kona Coffee. Where did it came from?

The Origins of Hawaiian Coffee The rich, alluring aroma.  The deep, distinct flavor.  The beautiful, mesmerizing color.  Hawaiian coffee has been w...

The Benefits of Drinking Hawaiian Coffee: From Flavor to Health

Hawaiian coffee is a prized commodity among coffee drinkers, known for its smooth flavor and numerous health benefits. From its volcanic soil and high elevation to its antioxidants and caffeine content, Hawaiian coffee is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being. This blog post explores the many benefits of drinking Hawaiian coffee, from its rich taste to its reduced risk of certain diseases, making it a must-try for coffee lovers and health enthusiasts alike.