At The Matcha Yaad, we often hear parents ask: “Can my child drink matcha?”
The honest answer is that it’s not outrightly recommended, but it can be considered at the discretion of the parent and with guidance from a paediatrician.
Matcha is celebrated for its antioxidants, calm energy, and nutritional value. Still, since it naturally contains caffeine, it’s important to understand both the benefits and potential risks before serving it to little ones.
Matcha and Caffeine: What Parents Need to Know
Matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves, which means it contains natural caffeine. That is about 30–40 mg per gram (1 teaspoon). That’s roughly half the amount in a standard cup of coffee.
Children’s smaller bodies process caffeine differently than adults, and too much can lead to:
- Restlessness or hyperactivity
- Difficulty sleeping
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Increased heart rate
- Nervousness or irritability
If you decide to introduce matcha, keep it to no more than one small cup per day, and avoid giving it near bedtime.
Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your child’s paediatrician before giving them matcha or any caffeinated drink.
Potential Benefits of Matcha for Kids (in Moderation)
While it’s not an essential part of a child’s diet, when used carefully, matcha can offer several potential wellness benefits:
- Supports Oral Health: Matcha is rich in catechins. These are natural antioxidants that help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. This can support gum health, fresh breath, and protection against cavities when combined with good dental hygiene.
- Encourages Heart Health: Green tea compounds may help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood flow. While studies in children are limited, establishing healthy habits early can support long-term cardiovascular wellness.
- Helps Curb Sugary Drink Habits: Matcha, when prepared without added sugar, can be a cleaner alternative to fizzy or energy drinks supporting healthier weight management and reducing risks linked to childhood obesity.
- Boosts Memory and Concentration: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid known to enhance focus and calmness. Paired with low levels of caffeine, it can promote sustained attention. This is great for study sessions or creative playtime.
Why Homemade Matcha is Always Better
If you’re introducing matcha to your child, skip café versions. Store-bought matcha lattes often contain too much matcha powder (sometimes even 4g), high caffeine levels, and added sugars or syrups.
Making it at home allows you to:
- Control the amount of matcha and caffeine
- Choose ceremonial-grade matcha for purity and smooth flavour
- Avoid artificial sweeteners or additives
Easy Kid-Friendly Matcha Recipe you can try at home:
Peach Matcha Mini Latte (for Kids 7+)
Ingredients:
- ¼ tsp TMY Peach Matcha
- 2 tbsp warm water (not boiling — around 70°C)
- 150ml milk of choice (oat, almond, or dairy)
- 1–2 tsp natural peach purée or a few slices of ripe peach
- ½ tsp honey or agave (optional, for kids over 1 year old)
Method:
- Whisk the matcha and warm water together until smooth and frothy.
- Blend or stir in the peach purée until evenly mixed.
- Warm the milk, then pour it over the matcha blend.
- Sweeten lightly if desired and serve warm or over ice.
Tip: Start with small portions and observe how your child responds. Moderation is key.
Remember matcha is a special drink, not a daily necessity.
A small, diluted cup can be a fun, nutrient-rich treat but it should never replace water or milk in a child’s diet.
Final Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your paediatrician before introducing matcha or any caffeinated beverage to your child’s routine.
A Word from The Matcha Yaad:
Children don’t need matcha, but if you choose to let them enjoy it occasionally, make it pure, make it gentle, and make it at home.