In this article, you’ll learn some ways to teach your toddler good hygiene habits and self-care skills. These skills not only keep them physically healthy but also nurture responsibility and self-confidence. Let’s explore effective strategies and tips for instilling these important life skills in children.

What is important to teach them?

Let's kick things off by identifying what we should teach our little ones:

Handwashing

Teach your child to wash their hands correctly: wetting, applying soap, scrubbing all surfaces, rinsing thoroughly, and drying properly. Encourage washing before meals, after using the toilet, and after playing outside.

Oral hygiene

Next up is oral hygiene. Instill good brushing habits by showing your little one the proper technique of brushing in small circles and reaching all surfaces of their teeth. Encourage regular brushing after meals and before bedtime, and introduce flossing when your child’s dexterity allows it.

Personal care

Teach the importance of regular bathing and grooming. Explain how staying clean removes dirt, sweat, and bacteria from their bodies. Encourage thorough body washing, with extra attention to areas prone to sweat and odour. Also, teach your toddler to brush or comb their hair, trim their nails, and handle other basic tasks of getting ready.

Toilet training

As we’ve seen in previous episodes, you should start this training when your child shows signs of readiness. Teach proper toilet hygiene, including wiping from front to back, flushing, and washing hands afterward. It's also wise to highlight what healthy 'wee' and 'poo' look like and to tell your child to alert you when something is wrong.

Illness prevention

Lastly, teach your toddler about illness prevention. Explain how to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Teach them to dispose of tissues properly and wash their hands afterward.

How do I go about teaching them?

Now that we know what to teach, let's explore how to teach it effectively.

Lead by example

Demonstrate proper handwashing, tooth brushing, bathing, and grooming techniques. You are your child’s great teacher. If you prioritise hygiene, he or she will follow suit.

Start early

As soon as your toddler can understand and follow instructions, teach the importance of cleanliness. Make hygiene routines fun and engaging, using songs, stories, or colourful visuals to capture their interest.

Reinforce positive habits

Positive reinforcement is key to nurturing good hygiene habits. Praise and reward your child for every effort to maintain good hygiene. Use stickers, charts, or small rewards to acknowledge their accomplishments. Encourage their independence in self-care tasks, gradually giving them more responsibility as they grow.

Open communication

Encourage open communication about hygiene, allowing them to ask questions and share any worries. Respond to their curiosity with age-appropriate information, emphasising the importance of hygiene for their health and well-being.

Consistency

Establish consistent hygiene routines and stick to them. Set a schedule for daily activities such as brushing teeth, bathing, and handwashing. Consistency helps your toddler develop a sense of responsibility and ingrains good habits.

How do I teach my toddler good hygiene habits and self-care skills?

Unii's Toddler Health & Development Journey covers good hygiene and self-care habits to teach tots.