The bathroom can be a breeding ground for germs, but it can also be a place of intrigue and interest for children. Of course kids can find a way to entertain themselves just about anywhere. As offensive as it may seem to adults, children may like to play in the bathroom. It is important that parents teach children good hygiene and proper bathroom etiquette at an early age.
Instructions
1. Teach children the importance of hand washing, especially after using the bathroom. Germs are often spread through lack of proper hand washing. Young children tend to stick their fingers in their mouths. You don't want your child doing this or getting something to eat with unwashed hands. Unsanitary practices can cause illness. Stress the importance of hand washing to your child.
2. Accompany young children to the bathroom. Young children may tend to play in the toilet, flush repeatedly or let the water run in the sink or bathtub. Young children may also flush small objects such as toys down the toilet which can lead to a big mess and an expensive plumbing bill.
3. Prevent accidents from happening by taking small children to the bathroom and waiting either inside or outside the door until they are done. Not only can young children make a mess in the bathroom, but injuries can occur as well. A small child playing in running water could slip and fall if the floor becomes wet. He may also try to stand on the bathtub, or he may climb up on the toilet and fall. Don't let an unsupervised child remain in the bathroom for an extended length of time.
4. Teach children to clean up after themselves. If you start teaching your children to clean up after themselves at a young age, they will develop good habits that will last a lifetime. Teach your children to flush the toilet after each use, dry their hands and throw tissues and paper towels in the trash can.
5. Teach little boys to lift the seat when using the toilet to prevent accidental drips. Remind them to put the seat back down when they have finished. The females in the family will appreciate the consideration.
6. Teach children to knock before entering the bathroom in the event that the bathroom door does not lock or the person has forgotten to lock it. This is a good habit to put into practice in public restrooms as well.
7. Make sure to use sanitary measures when your child needs to use a public restroom. Enter the bathroom stall before your child to make sure it is clean. Place a disposable cover on the toilet seat before allowing your child to use the bathroom. Wash both your own hands and your child's hands when done. Use a hand sanitizer to protect against germs.
Tags: your child, hand washing, after themselves, children bathroom, children clean, children clean after