Babies and young children know nothing about good personal hygiene; parents, as their child’s first teachers, are responsible for teaching children the basics of washing their hands, brushing their teeth, combing their hair, bathing and wearing a clean change of clothing every day. Children learn exactly what adults teach them. Parents should begin teaching their children in infancy so hygienic practices become a habit.
Step 1
Show your child early how to brush her teeth. When her first teeth erupt, wet a small toothbrush and gently clean her teeth. Brush her teeth morning and night so she gets used to it. When she is about two years old, put a small dot of toothpaste on her toothbrush and brush her teeth, showing her how to spit the foam out and rinse her mouth.
Step 2
Teach your child how to enjoy his baths from infancy on. Make bath time a fun time while he is learning to clean dirt and germs away. It isn’t necessary to bathe him every day before he begins to crawl or walk, according to EduBook.com. When you do bathe him, shampoo his hair with a gentle baby shampoo and rinse well. Lather his washcloth and clean him, especially in areas where he has skin folds--elbows, knees, neck. Rinse and dry him, then gently rub baby lotion on his body.
Step 3
Clip your child’s fingernails and toenails regularly so she doesn’t accidentally scratch herself. When she is still very small, do this job when she is sleeping. As she gets older, get her used to having her nails trimmed when she’s awake. Teach her to wash her hands when she has gotten them dirty or when she has used the bathroom. Explain that she gets rid of germs when she washes her hands.
Step 4
Provide a good supply of clean clothing for your child. Change him when he spits up or soils his clothing in any way. Make sure he has plenty of diapers so you can keep him clean. As he gets older, help him develop the habit of putting on clean, fresh clothing every day. Teach him that it is time for him to bathe when he is dirty underneath his clothing.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a mild toothpaste at first, since adult toothpastes have a mint taste that might be too intense for your child. Find ways of making daily hygiene a fun habit to practice.
Things You'll Need
- Child’s toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Washcloth and towel
- Bath soap and shampoo
- Nail clippers
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