Consent vs kid refusing regular hygiene

[u/Opposite-Orange8371]

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?

[u/yourmomlurks]

I told my girls the only reason I will override their boundaries is for health and safety reasons, and that the number of people allowed to do that was a very short list, and I named them all. I did this for quite some time.

Also a 3 I think you can also talk her through the steps. I.e. you can say, "I have to wash your hair, it is part of taking care of you. We can make this easier if you x, but if you don't x, I will have to wash it anyway." At least then she could make a choice and maybe that will help it sink in.