If brushing teeth feels like a battle, or your toddler screams at the sight of shampoo - you’re not alone. These early years are magical, messy, and full of learning, and it’s completely normal for daily routines to come with a few tears (and lots of bubbles).
At Milestones Early Learning, we’re here to support families as children learn the life skills that matter most - like caring for themselves and building healthy hygiene habits. Whether your little one is still learning to wash their hands properly or getting used to bath time, the key is consistency, playfulness, and patience.
Here are some simple, real-world ways to make brushing, handwashing and bath time easier - and even enjoyable - for your child.
Tooth Brushing Without the Fuss
Many toddlers resist brushing their teeth. It’s new, it feels weird, and frankly - there are more interesting things to do! But with the right tools and approach, you can make it fun.
Try this:
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Sing a two-minute song (like “Brush Your Teeth” by The Wiggles) while brushing.
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Let your child pick a toothbrush with their favourite colour or character.
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Brush together in front of a mirror - toddlers love copying you.
Top tip: Children should start brushing with help as soon as their first tooth comes through. Aim for twice a day, and turn it into a ritual your child looks forward to.
Handwashing that Sticks
Handwashing is one of the most important habits for preventing illness - and one of the easiest to teach with play.
To encourage it at home:
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Keep a step stool by the sink so your child can reach on their own.
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Use soap that smells fun or foams up for extra sensory delight.
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Turn it into a game: race to the sink, blow bubbles while washing, or pretend you’re washing “germs away” like a superhero.
💡 Did you know? Singing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing helps kids clean their hands for the right amount of time - around 20 seconds.
At Milestones, we build handwashing into daily routines before meals, after outdoor play, and following toilet use - making it second nature for even our youngest children.
Bath Time Made Easy
Some kids love splashing in the tub - others need more encouragement. And let’s face it, when you’re pregnant and tired, wrangling a wriggly toddler into the bath might not feel magical.
That’s where routines come in. Predictable bath times, paired with playful moments, help children feel safe and more willing to engage.
Tips to try:
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Let your child bathe a doll or plastic animal first.
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Offer toys like pouring cups, rubber ducks or bath crayons.
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Keep your tone light - if it feels calm and playful to you, it will to them too.
What If Your Child Is...
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Under 2? Keep routines simple and joyful. Let them explore water play and copy your actions. Focus on building comfort and familiarity.
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Ages 2–3? Encourage independence with gentle reminders and simple instructions. You can even offer “choices” to give them a sense of control: “Do you want to use the blue towel or the yellow one today?”
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Ages 4–5? Let them take the lead with brushing or washing (while still supervising). You might try a sticker chart or a “hygiene hero” routine with a fun reward at the end of the week.
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Building healthy habits takes time - and some days will go better than others. That’s okay. What matters is that your child feels safe, loved, and supported as they learn.
At Milestones Early Learning, our educators partner with families to support your child’s development in every way - especially with essential life skills like hygiene, self-care, and independence. These moments may seem small, but they’re building blocks for confidence and wellbeing.
No matter what stage of parenting you're in - whether you're chasing after a toddler, expecting your next little one, or both - we’re here to support you.