Does your child need constant reminders to wash their hands, put on deodorant, or trim their nails? It can be frustrating to help kids take ownership of their hygiene, but it’s a crucial life skill. That’s because maintaining good hygiene is not only essential for children’s health; it’s also vital for their self-esteem. Children who learn to care for their bodies feel more confident and capable. Check out our parents’ guide to teaching kids hygiene across different age groups.
INTRODUCING HYGIENE TO INFANTS & TODDLERS
Parents play a crucial role in teaching basic hygiene practices to toddlers—one that starts in infancy, says Basil Bruno, MD, a board-certified pediatrician at Optum Pediatrics in Rochelle Park. He says this age is the perfect time to teach toddlers the importance of handwashing after playing, when using the restroom, and before meals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing takes at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and keep you healthy. Dr. Bruno suggests using songs to make the process fun and engaging. “You can sing a nursery rhyme, like ‘The Itsy Bitsy Spider’ or ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb’ while cleaning a baby’s hands,” he says.
Establishing regular dental hygiene routines is also important, says Mary F. Campagnolo, MD, FAAFP, a board-certified family physician and medical director at Virtua Primary Care – Mansfield in Bordentown. She says you can start brushing with a soft toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste (it’s safe to swallow) between the ages of one and two. “Consider scheduling their first dental exam to build a relationship with dental care,” she urges. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist within six to 12 months of your baby’s first tooth eruption.
HYGIENE BASICS FOR 4- TO 6-YEAR-OLDS
By now, you’ve likely developed a regular bathing routine. By cultivating a fun-filled experience—think bathtub crayons, bath toys, and pretend play—Dr. Bruno says parents can prevent kids from seeing personal hygiene as just another chore to be completed. He suggests guiding kids through the steps of washing their bodies, gradually allowing them to do it independently (with supervision, of course!).
Dr. Campagnolo says kids can start using fluoride toothpaste around age three. She advises providing minimal assistance and observing children brushing their own teeth until about age six. “Encourage them to spit out toothpaste after brushing,” she says. Parents can make it fun by letting kids pick out toothbrushes and toothpaste with their favorite characters and flavors.
At this stage, hand hygiene can progress to nail trimming, says Dr. Campagnolo. “Children should be encouraged to trim their nails and wash under the nail edges, which can harbor infections,” she says.
Using charts with images, stickers or stars can be a great way to motivate kids to take ownership of their hygiene practices and celebrate successes.
PRACTICING HYGIENE IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Elementary schoolers can trim their nails and brush and floss their teeth thoroughly at this age. They should also be responsible for their bathing routines, including scrubbing and rinsing, says Dr. Campagnolo. Encourage them to take showers if they prefer, teaching them to wash their genital and anal areas, hair and underarms.
According to guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology, kids in this age group may not need a daily bath or shower. Even so, they should understand the importance of bathing after swimming, sweating, and getting dirty as well as wearing clean clothes.
PERSONAL HYGIENE CHANGES IN PUBERTY
Puberty starts around ages 10 to 14 in girls and 12 to 16 in boys, per the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Bruno says personal care items become essential as they experience hormonal changes that contribute to oily hair and skin, body odor, and body hair growth.
Body odor: Dr. Bruno advises children experiencing excess body odor to bathe daily and use deodorant. He says they can use antiperspirants once puberty starts. If clinical-strength over-the-counter brands don’t cut it, he recommends discussing prescription-strength options with your child’s pediatrician. Wearing breathable fabrics like cotton and other natural materials and changing clothes regularly, especially after physical activities, can help with strong body odor, too.
Oily skin and acne: Kids can manage oily skin and acne by keeping their skin clean. “Acne comes from your skin pores getting clogged,” explains Dr. Bruno. He recommends that kids use gentle skin care or acne products if necessary. Your pediatrician can recommend further acne treatment options if home care isn’t working.
Body hair: Parents can discuss options for body hair grooming or removal, such as shaving, waxing and depilatory creams, as advised by Dr. Bruno. The best way to nurture a positive attitude toward personal care is to lead by example. Model good hygiene habits, engage in open discussions about body care, and celebrate your child’s efforts, no matter their stage. Making hygiene a natural part of daily life will help your child develop lifelong habits, contributing to their health and confidence.
Period Prep: Dr. Campagnolo offers the following tips for girls who’ve started menstruating:
- Wash the exterior genital area daily.
- Wipe from front to back to avoid infections.
- Avoid using chemical cleansers in the vagina (they can cause yeast infections).
- Change sanitary napkins every three to four hours.
- Change tampons every four to eight hours.
- Use unscented pads and tampons to reduce the possibility of skin irritation.
- Discard used sanitary products wrapped in a tissue in the trash—never flush.
- Seek medical advice if unusual odors, heavy period blood flow, unusual pains, or discharge occur.
—Heidi Borst is a mother, writer and lifestyle coach based in Wilmington, NC.
