Your child’s health depends on many things.
Children are exposed to more germs and illnesses at school, so bathing regularly
and keeping him/her clean is very important. Hand washing with soap is one of
the easiest ways that you can help prevent sickness. Teach your children to
wash their hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the
restroom. For more information, complete the lesson on “Preventing Illness”.
Your child(ren)’s teeth are very important.
Regular dental check ups and brushing with toothpaste that contains fluoride
will help prevent tooth decay. Brushing after every meal is best, but children
should brush at least in the morning before school and at night before bed.
For more information, complete the lesson on “Dental Hygiene”.
School age children should bath every day.
Baths at nighttime are easier to plan than a bath during the morning school
rush. Clean hair is important to a child’s health and appearance. Oily, dirty
hair is a magnet for lice and can cause scalp problems. Children should use
shampoo to clean the hair at least every other day.
As children get older, their bodies and hygiene
needs change. Keeping the face and hands clean can help prevent pimples. They
might begin to sweat more, so deodorant should be used and a bath will be
necessary every day. Girls may begin menstruating, so you should discuss proper
feminine hygiene with them as well as the need to bathe every day. For more
information on discussing puberty with your children, go to the website listed
at the end of this lesson.
Clean clothes are important to a child’s
personal appearance and self-esteem. Outer clothes may be worn for more than
one day if they are not soiled, but as children become more active, their
clothes might need to be washed after only one use. Children should never wear
underwear for more than one day. This can cause rashes in some children as well
as an unpleasant odor. Stress to your children the importance of wearing clean,
fresh-smelling clothes to school. Clothes that are soiled or sour smelling
should be laundered as soon as possible.