Washing your toddler
© DK
As your child gets older she will probably regard bathtime primarily as playtime. Most children love playing with water and the bath is one of the most convenient places for them to do it, so provide plastic cups, beakers, boats and ducks, allow plenty of time, relax and let bathtime be fun.
Encourage your child to wash herself by having a special sponge that she can use. Until her co-ordination is more developed she won't make a perfect job of it so be prepared to go over the same areas with another facecloth. Soap both your child's hands by holding a bar of soap between them, and show her how to spread the soap over her body and arms.
Baths should be carefully supervised as a child of this age is still at risk of slipping and falling under the water. Toddlers are generally keen to do things for themselves so there is the added risk that your child may turn on the hot tap or grab the soap or shampoo and get some in her eyes. Covering the taps with a towel is a good way to soften any falls or bangs.
Daily washing routine
Most children need a wash in the morning but it's probably best to leave it until after breakfast. Children are often ravenously hungry when they wake up, and you'll only have time to change the soggy nappy before food becomes imperative. After your child has eaten she'll probably be more willing to stand still to have her face and hands washed, teeth brushed (see Looking after teeth) and hair combed.
By the time your child's about one and a half she'll be able to rinse both hands under water and, with improving co-ordination, will learn to soap them. Do bear in mind, though, that she won't always remember the routine of hand washing: sleeves may not be rolled up, jumpers may get wet and soap may slip out of tiny fingers. So always be close by to lend a hand should she need it.
Hygiene while washing
Start hygiene routines young and, where possible, teach by example. For instance, from the time that your child starts to crawl and get her hands dirty, washing before eating should become automatic. If you start by washing your hands with your child (and I mean with), by getting your hands soapy together and washing each other's hands, it can become fun. While you're teaching your child how to wash you can make a game of it by trying to blow bubbles with the soap film that forms between your forefinger and thumb when you make a circle. Dry your hands together as well. Afterwards, let your child inspect your hands and then you look at hers.
If you start like this it makes it much easier to apply hygiene rules at other times. For example, hand washing should always follow visits to the lavatory. But you should start at the potty stage and do it with your child every single time. You can help her become more independent by providing a stable, non-slip standing block in the bathroom, so she can reach the basin and toilet easily and safely by herself.
Give your child a soft toothbrush to start with and encourage her to use it after meals, especially once her molars are through (see Looking after teeth).
Pets and hygiene
There are important advantages for your toddler in having a pet, but you may be concerned about the possible health risks involved. However, if you follow a few simple rules about handling pets, you should have no cause for concern. Encourage your child to wash her hands after playing with her pet - especially before touching or eating food. Also, you should stop your child from kissing her pet, especially near its nose and mouth.
The most common problems caused by pets are infestations of fleas and worms. Both of these are easily avoided by regular use of the appropriate preventive treatments. If infestations do occur, treat promptly and stop your child from playing with the pet until treatment has worked. Ringworm is a contagious skin condition that can be caught from pets, and is commonly seen in children. If you suspect ringworm, ask your pharmacist for advice on treatment.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
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