Personal Hygiene Tools for Children
There are various personal hygiene tools that are essential for both boys and girls. These include:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss.
- Hairbrush and comb.
- Deodorant.
- Shampoo and conditioner.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Hair accessories – for girls.
- Facial cleanser.
- Shaving tools and shaving cream – for boys.
- Facial wash.
- Sunblock.
Different Types of Personal Hygiene
The types of personal hygiene and the tools associated with each are as follows:
- Oral Hygiene: Toothbrush and toothpaste are used to clean teeth, starting from the emergence of the first tooth. It is advisable for parents to assist children with this task until they reach the age of seven. A fun way to encourage them is to sing for two minutes while they brush their teeth.
- Bathing: Various tools are required for bathing, such as water, body wash, and shampoo. Parents typically bathe their children until they are five years old, after which children can take this responsibility with parental supervision. It’s important to guide children in cleaning different parts of their bodies, including the neck, armpits, waist, abdomen, elbows, knees, and feet. Additionally, teaching them how to wash their hair without getting soap in their eyes is essential.
- Hand Washing: Using soap and water to wash hands is crucial in daily life. Children should be trained to wash their hands after activities that may dirty them, such as outdoor play or interacting with animals, and before meals.
- Nail Care: Nail clippers and a small brush are used for nail hygiene. Children can learn to clean under their nails with a brush during bath time, and parents should assist in nail trimming once a week.
Post-Bathing Hygiene Tools
After bathing, it is important to wrap the child in a soft towel, preferably one with a hood to dry their head and help retain body heat. Although a child’s skin may appear dry and in need of oils and moisturizers, this is often not a concern. Pediatrician Katherine Williamson from the Children’s Hospital in Orange County, California, explains that newborns possess natural oils that keep their skin soft and hydrated. Therefore, pediatricians recommend avoiding baby powders, as the particles can lead to respiratory issues. If dryness is evident on wrists or ankles, using petroleum jelly or natural oils such as sunflower oil or coconut oil is advisable.
Video on the Importance of Personal Hygiene
To learn more about the importance of personal hygiene, please watch the video.