How to Tell Children They Should Wear Clothes
Exploring life and adoring attention, young children tend to have an exhibitionist side to their nature. Small children often don't understand the social conventions of clothes and nudity, which can make keeping them dressed quite a chore. However, by initiating affirmative and creative conversation, you can help your little ones understand when and where they need to remain clothed.
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Instructions
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Ask your child why he doesn't like wearing clothes. Listen for answers like "I hate the way they feel!" which may indicate clothing-sensitive conditions like autism, or "I hate things touching me," which may indicate possible sexual abuse.
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Ask your child what she would like to wear that day. Point out some different appropriate choices, perhaps with her favorite superheroes or animals on them.
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Explain to the child that he can have "naked time" only when designated. Let him know that when in the presence of non-family members, it's polite to wear clothes. Explain that there is nothing wrong with being naked when only Mommy or Daddy are around.
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Explain to your child that if she takes off her clothes outside of "naked time," you will need to dress her again.
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Talk through the steps of getting dressed with your child, allowing him to dress himself as much as possible as you explain the process.
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Tell your child the reasons clothes are important. Focus on non-shaming reasons such as protection against cuts and scrapes, warmth and self-expression.
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Read a children's book to your child with a clothing theme and talk about it afterward. Select books that deal with a single piece of clothing, such as coats in "The Pocket Dogs" by Margaret Wild, hats in "Caps for Sale" by Esphyr Slobodkina, underwear in "Pants" by Giles Andreae or trousers in "Dan's Pants" by Merle Good.
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Tips & Warnings
Nudity sometimes aids the potty-training process, eliminating the child's need to undress before using the bathroom.
Never tell your child she is "bad" or "should be ashamed" for not wearing clothing, as statements like these can lead to body issues later in life.
