We bought a new refigerator when we moved in to our current house. I insisted on getting one with an external water and ice dispenser, although Mom thought it was a pointess extravagance. However, it’s turned out quite well. Even Mom uses it. The best part, though, is that it seems to be training Corwin to drink plain water instead of soda. Mimi comented on it while we were down in Texas.
Because we keep cups right across from the refigerator Corwin can just get his own drinks and it’s easier for him to get water than to open up the refigerator and look for something which usually isn’t there. We don’t buy soda for the children and don’t stock juice boxes much either. It’s better all around to just go with the water. And the real benefit is that Corwin keeps the ice fresh for Mom and Dad when we need to get a drink!