PART 2 – ESTABLISHING ROUTINES

If you need help coping with an itching, scratching child, there are a few key things you can do. One excellent strategy is to find a routine. Routines will take time but long-term they are very beneficial. Routines bring structure to a schedule and this is very important for children regardless of their age.

If children know that their dry and sensitive skin routine will be followed by getting to hear their favorite story or watch their favorite movie, then parents can encourage their children by saying things like “the sooner we get your routine done, the sooner we can read together”. This can help children better handle their expectations.

If you make a big deal out of the routine, your child will too. If you integrate it into their routine as something normal and natural, the same way that it’s normal to put on pajamas or brush one’s teeth in the morning, your child won’t make a big deal out of it.

Most children are willing to cooperate with a care routine when they know something good will happen from it. For example after you’ve washed their body and have applied the appropriate topical ointments or creams, they will often feel the instant benefits from that process such as reduced itchiness.

If you then further encourage your little one with a positive treat after the process, such as reading a story or playing a game, the routine becomes that much more enjoyable and it will feel a whole lot less like a chore.

Motivate your child with something fun and engaging, such as acting out a story, colouring in a book, or even singing a short song together, and you’ll quickly see how easy it is to get into a routine and stick to that routine for the long haul.