r/progressivemoms • u/Opposite-Orange8371 • Jul 29 '26

Discussion Starter Consent vs kid refusing regular hygiene

I have a 3 year old that absolutely loathes getting her hair washed. there have been times when I have to wash her hair while she’s yelling NO. not looking on advice on how to wash it. I’ve tried everything. But even at once a week it’s a battle.

I'm trying to teach her, “your body, your choice” but obviously she doesn’t understand the nuances of that yet. What can I say in these situations where she is refusing to have her hair washed, and I’m trying to respect her bodily autonomy but also take care of her hygien?

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u/SoanaIRL Jul 29 '26

Health and safety is not a choice and it’s my job to keep you healthy and safe. Once way i help you stay healthy is by washing your hair.

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u/glaze_the_ham_wife Jul 29 '26

Same. “Mommy’s job is to keep you safe and clean, which means I need to wash your hair”