One of the best things a child can do to guard against illness and prevent the spread of germs to others is to practice good hygiene, according to Children’s Youth and Women’s Health Service (CYWHS). That is why it is so important for a child to become privy to the basics of good hygiene that include frequent hand washing, bathing and oral care.
Hand Washing
A child may catch infections like the common cold when his hands come into contact with germs and he puts them in his mouth, according to CYWHS. That’s why frequent hand washing is so important to good hygiene.
Instruct your child to wash her hands and wrists before and after handling food, petting an animal and after going to the bathroom. Also teach to him to scrub under his nails with a nail brush when they become dirty. Hands ideally should be dried with a fresh paper towel or air dryer to minimize the spread of germs.
Bathing
A daily bath is necessary to keep a child’s body clean and free of germs, according to the Parent website. A child should wash his face, ears, genitals, bottom, armpits and feet. Consider purchasing bathtub toys and/or bubble baths or soaps designed for kids to make the experience more inviting and enjoyable.
Feet
Special care should be used when drying feet because more bacteria collects between the toes than anywhere else on your skin, according to the CYWHS.
Show your child how to dry his feet thoroughly, paying special attention to the area between the toes. Use a dry washcloth if a towel is too thick to get between tiny toes.
Hair Care
Hair should be washed regularly to remove dirt, excess oil and dead skin cells. A child should learn to massage shampoo thoroughly into the scalp and rinse it well with clear water. How often a child should shampoo will depend on his hair type and recent activities like exercising or swimming, according to the Kids Health website. A conditioner may help make combing easier, especially for a child with longer hair.
Oral Hygiene
Getting a grasp on good oral hygiene techniques also is important for kids. The American Academy of Family Physicians says children should brush their teeth twice a day. A child should also fill his mouth with water and swish it around to get rid of food particles that remain on the teeth, according to the CYWHS. To help avoid cavities, limit sweet snacks and beverages between meals.
