Your kid is clamoring for your caramel latte. But before you offer a sip, keep in mind that kids and caffeine don’t mix well. While there are no official government guidelines on how much caffeine children should consume, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests children under age 4 should not drink coffee or caffeinated beverages at all. Kids 8 and older can handle small amounts, about the serving size of a can of soda. Still, kiddo coffee drinking can have negative side effects like insomnia, headaches and even an irregular heartbeat. If your kid keeps bugging you for the brew, serve a cup of warm milk and a tiny amount of coffee crystals (decaf is best) for a bit of faux joe.

Source: Carly Stewart, MD, a pediatrician in New York City