Have you been working on teaching your children about the value of maintaining good personal hygiene? Are you looking for a handful of books to incorporate into their story time that will help you to reinforce that message? If so, I may be able to help. I am familiar with several books that would be wonderful for such a situation. Here’s a quick rundown on five of them:
“I Am a Booger…Treat Me with Respect!”
If you ask me, Julia Cook’s book “I Am a Booger…Treat Me with Respect!” is a humorous way to address nose blowing, germs and other issues related to personal hygiene. Most preschoolers and kindergarteners that I know found it amusing primarily because it features a talking booger. Of course in the end, Mister Booger did more than entertain. He also provided them with valuable, kid friendly information.
“Oh the Things You Can Do That Are Good for You!: All About Staying Healthy”
Tish Rabe’s book “Oh the Things You Can Do That Are Good for You!: All About Staying Healthy” is another one that I would recommend for preschool through elementary school age kids because of its focus. I like that it touches upon a variety of personal hygiene issues instead of just one. Thus, the book may be used as a stepping off point for a series of health related discussions. I should also mention that it is part of the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library. As such, many children are apt to recognize the characters and feel comfortable with them.
“Stand Back,” Said the Elephant, “I’m Going to Sneeze”
Although it is not considered a traditional hygiene book, Patricia Thomas’ “Stand Back,” Said the Elephant, “I’m Going to Sneeze” is worth a look as well. Its storyline focuses on a pachyderm with one tremendous problem. Therefore, it could be used to spur discussions about the importance of covering one’s nose and mouth when sneezing. Personally, I loved the flow of the text and the cute illustrations. In my experience, it is suitable for preschoolers and kindergarteners.
“The Tale of Georgie Grub”
If you want a book that focuses on the value of bathing, I’d recommend checking out a copy of Jeanne Willis’ book “The Tale of Georgie Grub.” Its storyline focuses on a boy in desperate need of some soap and water time. I found it to be an amusing tale and so did the kids.
Last on my list is Tony Ross’ book “Wash Your Hands!” As the name aptly suggests, its storyline focuses on a child and her aversion to hand washing. Of course by the end of the story, she learns the error of her ways. The kids seemed to find the story entertaining and enjoyed looking at the illustrations.
Source: Personal Experience
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