Good hygiene is one of the foundations of health and wellbeing, for both adults and children. As kids grow up, it’s up to you as the parent or guardian to help them develop healthy habits that will serve them well as they mature.
Sticking to proper hygiene practices has several benefits. It can protect health and wellbeing, prevent illnesses and infection, and instil a sense of confidence in daily life and social situations. Here’s how you can help your kids in this area.
Hand washing
Perhaps the simplest yet most effective way to stop the spread of germs and bacteria is through regular handwashing. Teach your child how to wash their hands properly.
This should be done with plenty of soap and water, and for at least 20 seconds. Reinforce the importance of this especially after going to the toilet and playing outside, and before eating.
Dental hygiene
Oral health is a fundamental part of general health and wellbeing. Encourage your little ones to brush their teeth at least twice a day. Once in the morning and once before bed is the norm, but you can do it more. Flossing with a water flosser can be another good step to keep gums and mouth healthy.
Children should use a toothbrush with softer bristles and a pea-sized blob of fluoride toothpaste. Watch their brushing technique and demonstrate your technique if necessary. Regular dental check-ups are essential to catch any oral health issues early.
Regular bathing
Bathing is crucial to remove dirt, sweat and bacteria from the skin, reducing the risk of infections and odour. Help your child establish a regular bath or shower routine, whether it’s daily or a few times a week, depending on their needs.
All parts of the body should be washed, including behind the ears, under the arms and between the toes. As they grow older, introduce the use of deodorant if it’s needed. Toe and fingernails should also be kept cut and clean.
Clean clothes and laundry
You’re probably still doing their laundry, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stress the importance of clean clothes. Changing clothes daily, particularly underwear and socks, stops odours and the build-up of bacteria in sensitive places.
Get them into the routine of placing dirty clothes aside and help with simple laundry tasks as they get older. This way, they’ll slowly start to become self-sufficient when it comes to laundry and looking after themselves.
Setting a good example
Children often take after the examples set by parents. Ensure that you’re a strong role model by practising proper hygiene yourself. You may want to incentivise healthy behaviours early on if it’s a struggle.