Teaching a child proper personal care

The Bare Facts

Deciding how much family nudity everyone is comfortable with can be tricky. You may have felt quite at ease showering with your toddler but are unsure about what's appropriate with your six-year-old. Follow the rule that either of you can set new boundaries.

If your child says she no longer wants to bathe with a sibling or a parent, or wants to change in private, then honour her decision without any teasing or jokes. Most children won't say in words that they want more privacy. But sometime around the age of eight, they may show signs. They may squirm uncomfortably at a kissing scene on TV or insist on wearing underpants under their pyjamas.

If, as a parent, you want to change an established pattern of nudity, then say so gently, using age-appropriate language. For example, if your child is used to crawling into the tub with you and you would prefer that she no longer did, say that you'd rather cuddle on the couch when you're dried and dressed. This way, you acknowledge her desire to be close to you and at the same time teach her that it's OK to set personal boundaries.

Acne

Explain that washing one's hair and face regularly can sometimes reduce acne breakouts. But acne is often a result of hormonal changes, and some soaps can even aggravate the condition. Sometimes acne occurs early in the pubertal stages, and parents assume it will disappear. But kids are often very upset by it, so take your child to your family doctor to discuss it. The doctor may refer you to a dermatologist.

To Shave or Not to Shave?

Boys are unlikely to have to shave off facial hair before they reach their teens. But some girls decide as early as age eight that they want to shave off the hair on their legs. Shaving doesn't make the hair grow back any darker or coarser, contrary to conventional wisdom, so let her give it a try. You might want her to use a cordless razor for safety's sake rather than a regular razor with blades. She'll probably shave once or twice, then lose interest until she's in her teens.