The habits that matter most
- Handwashing with soap for 20 seconds before eating and after the toilet, play outdoors or blowing noses.
- Catch it, bin it, kill it - tissues into the bin, then wash hands.
- Coughing and sneezing into the elbow when no tissue is to hand.
- Not sharing water bottles, towels, flannels or hairbrushes.
- Daily washing as children approach puberty, and a fresh change of clothes.
Making it stick
Children copy adults far more reliably than they follow instructions. Wash your hands with them, make it part of an existing routine rather than a separate task, and use a song or timer for younger children. Step stools and soap they like remove friction.
Skin, teeth and nails
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth, supervising until around seven. Keep nails short. Avoid harsh antibacterial products on children's skin, which strip the skin barrier and can worsen eczema - plain soap and warm water is enough.
This article is general information and does not replace personal medical advice. To discuss your child, call 01926 624 235 or send us an enquiry.