It’s important to establish good hygiene and healthy habits in your child from an early age. According to National Geographic, every day, the average person encounters thousands of different germs, including children. As a parent, you play a pivotal role in teaching kids care and helping your child develop routines that will benefit them throughout their life. Here are some tips on how you can teach your kids proper hygiene and keep them healthy.

Establish a Routine

Getting your child into a routine can help make hygiene second nature to your child. Have set times each day when your child brushes their teeth, showers, washes their hands, and tends to other hygiene tasks. Make kids care a regular part of your family’s schedule. You may need to help young children and closely supervise them to ensure they’re properly completing these tasks. Over time, and with positive reinforcement, these healthy habits will stick.

Teach Handwashing

Frequent handwashing is one of the best ways for your child to prevent illness. Teach your kid to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, before eating, when coming inside from playing outdoors, and anytime their hands look dirty. Make sure they scrub front, back, between fingers, and underneath nails. Have catchy songs on hand to help ensure they hit the 20-second mark. Place kid-friendly soap and step stools by sinks to encourage regular handwashing.

Promote Oral Health

Caring for teeth is important to hygiene and health. Help your child brush properly twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing once a day is also important as your kid’s skills develop. Bring them to regular dental visits to make sure their smile stays healthy. Teach them the importance of limiting sugary food and drinks to prevent cavities down the road. Establishing excellent oral habits now prevents expensive dental work later.

The environments children are regularly in can be filled with germs. By developing proper hygiene and health safety habits and leading by example, you set your child up for success, while also helping them to remain healthy. If you’re looking for a pediatrician who offers kids care and health services, reach out to Pediatrix to schedule an appointment.

 

Posted: 1/27/24