How to Teach Hygiene to Boys
Parents dread the thought of having the smelly kid in class, so take the first step in preventing body odor by teaching your child to have good hygiene. While the topic of hygiene is a personal and sometimes embarrassing one, realize that you are your child's biggest supporter and advocate. Show your child that not only are you a trustworthy confidante, but that you understand how important, yet touchy, the topic of personal hygiene really is.
Instructions
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Demonstrate good hygiene. One of the simplest ways to teach proper hygiene to boys is to demonstrate hygiene in your daily actions and behavior. Allow your son to see you wash your hands. Verbally remind him that you, too, need to be hygienic. Pull your hair back while cooking, wear gloves while cleaning and floss daily to display proper hygiene.
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Explain why hygiene is important. Proper hygiene helps prevent the spread of germs, but it is also part of social etiquette. Remind your child that washing his hands after he sneezes, washing his face before dinner, showering on a regular basis and keeping his breath fresh demonstrate that he respects himself and, in turn, other people.
Lack of hygiene can also have disastrous consequences, so don't overlook this while explaining hygiene. For example, if your child doesn't brush his teeth, he may develop cavities.
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Read a book about practical ways to demonstrate good hygiene during different stages of life. For example, if your child is a preschooler, read a short storybook that talks about washing his hands, cleaning his face and brushing his teeth. A teenager will need a book that discusses shaving and deodorant.
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Take your son shopping for hygiene products. Make hygiene a special experience, rather than something to dread. Buy your child instant hand sanitizer, facial wipes, tissues, deodorant and, if necessary, shaving cream. Let him pick out the scent he wants. Some boys are concerned that their deodorant might smell girlish, so let them pick out something masculine. Allow your child to pick out a special toothbrush and flavored toothpaste. If your son spends a lot of time at his friends' homes, purchase a small travel bag so he can discreetly bring hygiene products on overnight visits.
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Tips & Warnings
To make hand washing a little more fun, tell your son to sing "Happy Birthday" slowly while lathering his hands at the sink; by the time he is finished, his hands should be germ-free.
If your son has to wear a gym uniform for physical education class, remind him to bring it home after each class to be laundered.
References
Resources
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