In a recent TikTok video that quickly went viral, a mom of six from Utah, Sharon Johnson, shared some of the rules she has in place to make her family's daily life more manageable. While some of the rules raised eyebrows, it was her bathing schedule that particularly caught people's attention.
According to Johnson, her family follows a strict bathing routine - Sundays and Wednesdays are designated as bath and shower days. If her children feel the need to bathe in between those days, they are encouraged to do so. However, she believes that twice a week is sufficient for regular bathing.
The video received a whopping 8 million views within a week, which prompted an influx of comments. Many people expressed their surprise and concern, believing that bathing only twice a week is inadequate. Some even questioned the frequency of tooth brushing or wondered how the children cope during the hot summer months.
In response to the backlash, Johnson posted another video acknowledging the comments. She explained that her family lives in an extremely dry climate and her children have sensitive skin. Bathing every day would cause their skin to become raw and uncomfortable. Johnson also cited the American Academy of Dermatology Association's guidelines, which suggest that bathing once or twice a week is acceptable for children aged 6 to 11. The frequency should increase depending on their activities or when body odor becomes a concern. It is only during puberty that daily bathing is recommended.
For younger children, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises about three baths per week for babies in their first year and two to three baths per week for toddlers.
Johnson concluded her video by asking viewers to keep their comments respectful and considerate. It is understandable that different families have different approaches to bathing routines, and what works for one might not work for another.
The debate around how often children should bathe is not new. This TikTok video reignited a discussion that began when celebrities like Mila Kunis and Kristen Bell admitted to not bathing their children daily. It is clear that opinions vary greatly on this topic, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Ultimately, parents should consider their child's individual needs, including their skin sensitivities and lifestyle factors, when deciding on a bathing routine. It is essential to maintain good hygiene practices without causing discomfort or skin issues.
As always, it is important for everyone to approach these discussions with kindness and respect, understanding that what works for one family may not work for another.
