As parents, we all want the best for our children. Teaching good habits early on is important for their success. One of the most important lessons is the importance of good personal hygiene.
“Personal hygiene is all about keeping yourself clean to stay healthy and feel good,” said Wendy Pauker, associate director of child life services with Banner Children’s. “It includes daily habits like washing your hands, brushing your teeth, bathing and wearing clean clothes.
Illnesses spread quickly, causing frequent colds, stomach bugs and more severe diseases. Simple practices like regular handwashing help remove dirt, sweat and germs and make sure your child looks and feels their best.
Teaching your kids about hygiene sets them up for a lifetime of good health and well-being. But how do you make these lessons stick? We share age-appropriate tips and practical advice to help your child develop lifelong, healthy habits.
The basics of teaching hygiene by age group
For toddlers (Ages 1 to 3)
At this age, children are curious and eager to learn. Use their curiosity to introduce basic hygiene:
- Handwashing: “Kids can really start washing their own hands as early as age 1,” Pauker said. “As long as parents are showing their kids how to wash their hands, modeling how it is done and explaining the main reason, kids will do it.”
Teach toddlers to wash their hands before eating, after using the toilet and after playing outside. Sing a fun song like “Happy Birthday” twice to ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds. Pauker shared the following resource – Wash your hands dance with baby shark – that may help. - Bathing: Make bath time fun with toys. Use this time to teach them how to properly wash their bodies.
- Toothbrushing: Start with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste. Let them try brushing their teeth but also help them with a quick brush to make sure they are clean.
For preschoolers (Ages 3 to 5)
Preschoolers can understand more about why hygiene is important.
- Handwashing: Explain how germs work in simple terms. “Probably the most common mistake children make is not soaping up enough and washing all over their hands, meaning the top and inside of the palms, up to the wrist,” Pauker said. “It’s also important to rinse and dry really well.”
Use glitter to show how germs spread and how washing with soap and water removes them. Sing a handwashing song or use a timer to ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds. Pauker shared the following resources – Handwashing Heroes and Handwashing Song – that may help. - Bathing and toothbrushing: Make these routines more independent but watch your child to make sure they do a thorough job. Use charts and stickers to track their progress and make it rewarding.
- Covering coughs and sneezes: “Sneezing and coughing into the crease of the elbow is as important as handwashing,” Pauker said. “You can model for your child how to do it. Have them use a tissue to wipe or blow their nose.”
- Hands off the face: Explain why they should avoid touching their face, mouth and eyes, as this can spread germs. Use reminders and gentle corrections to reinforce this habit.
For school-age children (Ages 6 to 12)
At this stage, kids can take more responsibility for their hygiene:
- Handwashing and bathing: Encourage kids to wash their hands frequently and bathe regularly. Teach them about the connection between touching their face and getting sick. Discuss the importance of handwashing to prevent illness.
- Dental hygiene: Remind your child to brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Regular dental check-ups are important.
- Personal cleanliness: Introduce the concept of deodorant as they approach puberty. Talk about the importance of clean clothes and regular bathing to manage body odor.
For teenagers (Ages 13+)
Teens need to understand the broader implications of hygiene for their health and social interactions:
- Handwashing and personal hygiene: Reinforce the importance of handwashing, especially in public places. Discuss acne care and the importance of a clean face. Provide tips for how to avoid touching their face.
- Showering and grooming: Encourage daily showers, use of deodorant and grooming practices like shaving.
- Dental and general health: Stress the importance of regular dental visits and oral hygiene. Discuss the impact of a balanced diet on overall hygiene and health.
- Digital and environmental hygiene: Teens often spend a lot of time on screens and gadgets. Set guidelines for screen time usage. Teach them how to clean their devices, as these can be breeding grounds for bacteria.
In addition, encourage them to keep their room clean and throw away garbage.
Tips for parents
To help your child build these habits, try these techniques:
- Lead by example: Children imitate what they see. Use good hygiene habits in your daily routine.
- Be patient: Learning takes time. Be patient and encourage your child to keep trying, even if they don’t always get it perfect.
- Be positive: Praise your child when they practice good hygiene. Use reward charts for young children.
- Promote a balanced diet: Offer nutritious foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Involve your child in meal planning and preparation to make healthy eating a habit.
- Encourage physical activity: Plan family activities that get everyone moving, such as bike rides, walks or playing in the park. Limit screen time and encourage outdoor play.
- Gentle reminders: Regularly remind your child to avoid touching their face, especially during cold and flu season. Make it a part of your daily conversations about hygiene.
- Keep up with well-checks: Regular visits to your child’s pediatrician or health care provider ensure they are healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. These check-ups are important for preventing illnesses and catching any health issues early.
Conclusion
Teaching your kids about personal hygiene is one of the best gifts you can give them. It keeps them healthy and helps them develop a sense of responsibility and self-respect. Start early, be consistent and turn hygiene routines into fun and rewarding experiences. Doing so will help your child build lifelong habits that will help keep them healthy and happy.
See their health care provider or a Banner Health specialist if you have concerns about your child's health.
