Personal hygiene can be one of those touchy subjects. No one wants to tell anyone else that their breath smells terrible. It’s such an embarrassing experience. The best way to avoid these type of experiences involves practicing healthy habits at home. It’s much easier to hear it from a family member versus a taunting schoolmate. To save your child the utter embarrassment and to help them develop proper hygiene practices, try the following steps.
1. Product Shopping
Some children are more likely to use a product if it’s one that they actually want. Take your child to the local drugstore to pick out a deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrush they like. Purchase items like electric toothbrushes and water flossers that make it a lot easier to manage dental hygiene. Purchase loofahs and body scrubs that your child will enjoy using when it’s time to bathe. Purchase products for yourself and be an example to your child that personal hygiene is essential and physically rewarding.
2. Visual Aids
When it comes to personal hygiene, it should be a non-negotiable decision. However, this isn’t always the case. Many children and teenagers will buck the system before giving in. Sometimes, it takes personal humiliation for some kids to learn. Sometimes, it might take a child overhearing others talking about their stench before they decide to change. For others, it might take the misfortunes of others for them to realize hygiene is important. For example, consistent dental care is important. With gum disease and other dental issues, the teeth can rot and fall out. Cosmetic dentistry in Somerset and, really, everywhere else has advanced over the years, but can be an arduous process. If children see visual aids, then that might help them understand the importance of dental hygiene.
3. Early Start
Start this process as early as possible. When your child is aware of what a toothbrush does and how to use it, make sure this happens. Make bath time a fun experience with bath toys, bubbles and music. As the child grows and gets accustomed to the process, they’ll be more likely to maintain these habits as they get older. For most adults, personal hygiene and care is a part of the regular routine. It’s second nature. This habit starts from a young age, so develop consistent personal hygiene practices early on.
4. Nutrition
In many cases, the fuel you put in your body shows up on the outside. If your child is lactose intolerant and eats lots of cheese sandwiches for lunch, they’ll be very gaseous throughout the rest of the school day. Many adults admit that the elimination of certain animal products allowed them to clean out their digestive systems. Take a look at the diet. Make sure it’s filled with lots of healthy fruits, vegetables and grains. Be mindful of any allergies because those will manifest in terrible ways. Encourage children to shower as soon as they’ve played outside and are dripping with sweat. When a person sweats, the body releases all the toxins. By skipping an immediate shower, the toxins go right back into the body. Sometimes, this can result in the form of growths on the skin. Encourage a wipe-down with an antibacterial wipe after finishing a hearty workout. Of course, this needs to be followed up with a good shower.
Always consider that nutrition, lots of water, rest and regular exercise all contribute to a healthy body and proper hygiene.
Proper hygiene is so essential to healthy living. When a person doesn’t take good care of their hygiene, it bleeds into other areas of their life. You don’t want to raise a child who doesn’t know how to manage bodily issues and functions. Encourage care from an early age. Remain consistent with the efforts and they’ll be fine.
