Here are a few tips for teaching children and teens the proper way to take pride in their appearance.
- Shower and/or bathe regularly. Children older than 7 years old should shower a minimum of every-other-day (my opinion anyway). Children and tweens should shower daily once they hit middle school…though an occasional day off is acceptable every few days or so.
- Wear clean clothes every day. This includes clean underwear!
- Wear nice clothes that are practical, that match, and that are situation-specific. Be sure to consider the day’s weather and the day’s activities. Children and teens should dress modestly and should avoid wearing clothes that don’t fit properly.
- Take care of your hair. Keep it clean, trimmed, and in style. It shouldn’t look like you just rolled out of bed…nor should it look as though it is housing a small family of rodents.
- Wear deodorant and/or a nice scent. People that smell good always leave a pleasant and lasting impression! Be careful not to over-do it…too much is worse than none!
- Use accessories to add some pizazz! A nice bracelet, ring, and/or necklace will compliment most outfits. Girls might want to sport a cute pair of earrings, a fashionable headband or a pretty bow to accentuate their hairstyle while boys might choose to accessorize with a baseball cap. A nice pair of shades can boost anyone’s level of “coolness.”
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Take good care of your teeth. Brush and floss them regularly and be sure to visit your dentist every six months or so for a good professional cleaning. You may not be too concerned about your teeth as a pre-teen but as you get older you will be glad you established healthy habits with regards to your teeth.
- Smile often. Nothing shows confidence better than a nice smile. People notice smiles and they enjoy being around people who display them frequently.