Hygiene in Childhood

Is your child showing up with stinky breath and a dirty shirt? This article explores childhood hygiene, offering insights into why some children may struggle with it and providing practical tips for parents to support their children in developing healthy habits. Read on to learn more about fostering good hygiene practices in your child.

by | Oct 25, 2024 | Daily Living

Young girl washing her hands at a bathroom sink.

What is Hygiene in Childhood?

Hygiene in childhood refers to those essential self-care skills that help us stay clean and healthy, like bathing, dressing, handwashing, and brushing our teeth. 

It’s a key part of growing up, and while most children naturally develop these habits, some might need a little extra guidance along the way. Think of it like learning to ride a bike – some kids take to it right away, while others need a helping hand and some encouragement to find their balance.

It can be expected for children to mature at different rates. You might find yourself patiently guiding your little one through every step of their routine, while your neighbor’s child seems to have handled it all like it’s no big deal. And that’s okay! 

Hygiene for pre-teens and teens

As children get older, hygiene becomes even more important, especially with the onset of puberty and the accompanying changes. Now, there are new things to consider, like body odor and increased perspiration. 

And of course, as you probably noticed right when it really counts, our pre-teens and teens decide they don’t care that much about this! Their rooms look like a science experiment. Their clothes are all in a pile on the floor. They grab the first thing they see off the top of their dirty clothes and dart out the door. You are calling after them to eat their breakfast and brush their teeth as they slowly saunter out the door on the way to school. 

Parents, take heart. This behavior is NOT unusual. 

Signs Your Child Might Need Support with Hygiene

Sometimes, it can be tricky to tell if a child needs a little extra help with hygiene.

Here are a few signs to watch for in your child.

  • Reluctance to shower or bathe: Your preteen or teen might need constant reminders, or even resist showering or bathing altogether.
  • Body odor: If your child has a persistent smell, it might be a sign that they’re not keeping up with regular hygiene routines.
  • Unkempt appearance: Messy, uncombed hair, mismatched clothes, or wearing the same outfit repeatedly could indicate a lack of attention to hygiene.
  • Resisting deodorant: As children enter puberty, deodorant becomes important. If they refuse to use it, it’s worth exploring why.
  • Difficulty with self-care: If your child is seven or older and still struggles to bathe independently, they might need some extra support.
  • Neglecting dental hygiene: Forgetting or refusing to brush their teeth regularly can lead to dental problems down the road.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good opportunity to provide gentle guidance and support. But what are some of the underlying reasons why children might struggle with hygiene?

Why Some Children Struggle with Hygiene

Just like with any skill, there can be various reasons why a child might find hygiene challenging:

  • Developmental stage: Young children often go through phases where they’re less interested in hygiene. It’s like they’re on a mission to explore the world, and things like brushing their radar right now.
  • Neurodiversity: Autistic kids or those with ADHD, might face additional challenges with adaptive skills, including hygiene.
  • Depression: A sudden change in hygiene habits can sometimes be a sign of depression or emotional distress.
  • Trauma: Experiences of trauma or abuse can significantly impact a child’s mental health and well-being, which can sometimes manifest in poor hygiene.
  • ADHD: Children with ADHD might struggle with attention to detail, organization, and task completion, making it harder to stick to hygiene routines.
  • Autism: Sensory sensitivities or differences in social awareness can sometimes make hygiene tasks more challenging for children on the autism spectrum.

Understanding these underlying causes can help us approach hygiene challenges with empathy and find effective solutions. It’s a bit like leveling up in a video game. There are new challenges to tackle, but with the right tools and support, kids can navigate this new terrain with confidence.

So, what can we do to support children in developing healthy hygiene habits?

What You Can Do to Support Your Child

The good news is that there are many ways to help children develop positive hygiene habits:

  • Start early: The earlier you introduce hygiene routines, the more naturally they’ll become a part of your child’s daily life.
  • Make it fun! Turn brushing teeth into a game, let your child pick out their own colorful toothbrush and toothpaste, or sing silly songs while washing hands.
  • Provide structure and support: Visual schedules, checklists, and step-by-step instructions can be incredibly helpful, especially for children who thrive on routine and predictability.
  • Use positive reinforcement: Praise and encouragement go a long way in motivating children to stick with their hygiene routines.
  • Be patient and understanding: Remember that learning new skills takes time and practice. Celebrate every small victory and offer gentle guidance along the way.

Pearls of Wisdom for Parents

  • Model good hygiene: Children learn by watching us, so make sure you’re setting a good example with your own hygiene habits.
  • Focus on the positive: Instead of criticizing or nagging, emphasize the benefits of good hygiene, like feeling fresh and clean, having a healthy smile, and feeling confident.
  • Collaborate with your child: Involve your child in choosing hygiene products they like, creating routines that work for them, and setting achievable goals.
  • Be mindful of sensory sensitivities: If your child has sensory sensitivities, explore different products and techniques to make hygiene tasks more comfortable.
  • Seek professional guidance if needed: If you’re concerned about your child’s hygiene or suspect an underlying issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional or therapist.

Parenting Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Power struggles: Avoid turning hygiene into a battleground. Instead, focus on collaboration and positive reinforcement.
  • Shaming or criticizing: Negative comments can damage a child’s self-esteem and make them even more resistant to hygiene routines.
  • Giving up too easily: Consistency is key! Keep encouraging and supporting your child, even if progress is slow.
  • Overlooking underlying issues: If hygiene challenges persist, consider whether there might be an underlying developmental or emotional issue that needs to be addressed.

A Final Word on Hygiene 

Hygiene is an important life skill that contributes to both physical and emotional well-being. By approaching hygiene with a positive and supportive attitude, we can empower children to develop healthy habits that will serve them throughout their lives.

Remember, it’s okay if they don’t get it right away. It might be a struggle for a while. Maybe it’s a struggle for a long time. But with patience and understanding, we can help them navigate these important skills and gain confidence in their well-being and appearance.

Book resources for hygiene issues

Barkley, Russell A. (2013). Taking charge of ADHD, 3rd edition: The complete, authoritative guide for parents. 

Kroncke, Willard, & Huckabee (2016). Assessment of autism spectrum disorder: Critical issues in clinical forensic and school settings. Springer, San Francisco.

Siegel, Daniel J. & Bryson, Tina Payne (2012). The whole brain child: 12 revolutionary strategies to nurture your child’s developing mind.

Seigel, Daniel J. & Bryson, Tina Payne (2014). No drama-discipline: The whole-brain way to calm the chaos and nurture your child’s developing mind.

Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Marcy

Take the first step towards understanding and supporting your child’s unique needs. Book an appointment with Dr. Marcy Willard, a leading expert in child psychology, to receive personalized guidance and support tailored to your family’s situation. Let us help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the strengths of your child’s journey.

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Written By Dr. Marcy Willard

About Dr. Marcy Willard

Dr. Marcy Willard is a renowned child psychologist with a passion for helping children and families thrive. With a background as the former CEO of Clear Child Psychology, she has touched the lives of over a million families. Dr. Willard’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including autism, ADHD, and learning issues. She is also a published author and a nationally recognized speaker and trainer.

In her practice, Dr. Willard focuses on providing a warm, authentic, and non-judgmental environment where families can find the support they need. Her approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, ensuring that every family receives personalized care and attention.

Learn more about Dr. Willard’s journey and how she can help your family by visiting our About page.