Last Tuesday the post was titled Is Cleanliness Next to Godliness? My answer was " I hope not." This week it's not as easy as cleaning. There are many standards for how clean a house should be. There isn't a lot of diversity on the subject of hygiene. Hygiene is one area that will immediately effect a person's for social success. Good hygiene doesn't assure anything but the lack of it definitely will inhibit a person to be included or considered for all kinds of social opportunities.
Let's not over complicate things. What are the bare essentials. Here is my list. I would love to here some one else's.
Shower daily. We used baby pre soaped disposable washcloths for many years. These are wonderful for younger children because they work for hair and skin.
When my son graduated to the next level, we purchased a body wash that could be used as soap and shampoo.
Brush teeth morning and evening. It's easier for my son to brush his teeth with an electric toothbrush. It does a better job with less effort than a manual toothbrush. wash hands with soap after using the restroom.
Always wash hands after using the restroom. Soap is a requirement. I found that things like this were always standard opporating procedures for some children. Hands should be wiped with a napkin or washed off if they are sticky or something gets on them. Pants can't be used as a napkin. Neither can shirts. Moms, I know you know exactly what I'm talking about.
Nails need to be trimmed regularly. It might be a good idea to pick a day that it's always done.
Once a child sweats much, applying deodorant daily especially I the warm weather is a non-negotiable!
As a child moves toward adolescence, skin care becomes an issue. This where strides type facial pads became a lifesaver. Daily use will usually keep acne to a minimum. If breakouts on the face get out of control a high intensity acne spot gel might be helpful.
Hair needs to be combed or In a style where it just falls into place.
Shaving is another issue. It is different for males and females but must be done. An electric shaver may be easier for many. It may be wise to determine how often, when and where. An electric shaver that is "wet/dry" allows for use in the shower or after a shower.
Hygiene takes effort but children with social deficits don't understand "what all the fuss is about." They don't understand what body odor, bad breath and unkempt appearance does to distance them from others. This I where you, as a parent, need to be a defender of reality. These children may not take you seriously at forst. Over time the rigid thinking can be broken down and good hygiene habits can br developed!
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