Teaching Hygiene Skills to Kids with Autism

Teaching hygiene to any child takes time and patience, but for kids with autism, the process often needs extra thought. Brushing teeth, washing hands, taking baths—these daily habits can be tough for kids with autism. Not because they don’t matter, but because the textures, smells, and steps involved can feel overwhelming. The good news? Many kids thrive with a clear, predictable routine. The trick is finding a way to teach those skills that fits your child’s pace.

Here’s how you can get started.

Start Small and Keep It Simple

Trying to teach a whole hygiene routine all at once can feel like standing at the bottom of a mountain. Start with one small habit. Brushing teeth? Washing hands? Pick just one. Once that habit sticks, move on to the next.

Keep the steps clear and short. Instead of saying, “Go wash your hands,” break it down: “Turn on the water. Get your hands wet. Get soap. Rub your hands together.” You get the idea. Visual cues help too—a chart or pictures near the sink can serve as reminders.

Turn It Into a Routine

Routines bring comfort. Try to keep hygiene tasks in the same order every day. When the timing stays the same, it becomes easier to predict and harder to forget. Use timers or music to mark how long each task takes. A favorite song while brushing teeth can make two minutes fly by.

Make It About Them

Let your child be part of the process. Take them shopping for their own toothbrush. Let them choose a fun towel or their favorite soap. When it feels like their thing, they’re more likely to want to do it. If your child is sensitive to smells or textures, try unscented products or softer materials. Avoiding discomfort can make the task a lot smoother.

Use Modeling and Practice

Show them how it’s done. Brush your teeth next to them. Wash your hands together. You don’t have to talk the whole time—sometimes just seeing it done helps more than hearing a bunch of directions. You can even use dolls or stuffed animals to “practice” hygiene skills in a playful way.

Celebrate Progress

Celebrate the little wins. A high five, a smile, or even just saying, “You did it!” goes a long way. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about trying. If you sense a meltdown, take a step back and breathe. Tomorrow is another day. Sometimes, progress shows up in tiny shifts, and that’s okay.

Be Patient with Setbacks

There will be days when everything clicks and days when it doesn’t. That’s normal. Kids with autism may have strong reactions to changes, and even something small can throw off their day. Don’t give up. Stick to the plan, but stay flexible. If brushing teeth before bed doesn’t work one night, try again the next.

Ask for Support When Needed

You don’t have to do it all alone. Occupational therapists, behavior specialists, and other support providers can help figure out what works best for your child. It’s okay to reach out!

At Pathways to Progress, we’re here to walk with you through every step. Want more guidance on building everyday skills with your child? Contact us today and let’s talk about what works best for your kid!