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Let the Kids Embrace the Mess: It’s Beneficial for Their Growth
by Emily Carter
April 17, 2023
When my older brother was a toddler, he spent a significant amount of time visiting the doctor. One day, after yet another check-up for a simple cold, the physician, likely exasperated by his frequent visits, turned to my mother and remarked, “You really should let this child get dirty.” I can picture my brother, freshly scrubbed and dressed in a pristine outfit, as if he had never once set foot outside.
My mother was taken aback. After longing for a child, she felt compelled to protect him at all costs. Surely, keeping him safe from germs meant regular baths and clean hands? However, the pediatrician, who practiced in the late 1970s, understood the bigger picture. Research from reputable sources like Healthline indicates that exposure to germs can actually be beneficial, especially for infants. In fact, children who encounter germs are less likely to suffer from asthma and allergies later in life.
Despite her initial hesitation, my mother heeded the doctor’s advice, wanting nothing more than for her child to be healthy. Gradually, she allowed my brother to explore the floor and play in the dirt, and soon, his frequent illnesses began to diminish. By the time I came along, I was free to roam outside, rolling in the grass with the dogs and discovering insects and frogs.
Our children need to experience the outdoors. Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a professor at a leading university, asserts that “exposure to everyday germs strengthens a young immune system, allowing it to learn and adapt.” Just like any system, our immune defenses require challenges to thrive; otherwise, they risk becoming complacent.
As humans, we have evolved alongside microbes and bacteria, which are not only all around us but also reside within us. Here’s a surprising fact: our bodies contain three to ten times more nonhuman cells than human cells. This includes viruses, fungi, and, yes, bacteria. It makes perfect sense that our bodies are accustomed to bacteria, so we shouldn’t be overly focused on eliminating every germ in our surroundings. In fact, overusing antibacterial products has been shown to provide no extra benefit compared to regular soap and water, and it may heighten the risk of drug-resistant infections. Superbugs are not something we want to face.
Our kids should be encouraged to dive into nature, catch worms, splash in puddles, and smear mud on their faces when we aren’t watching. We need to stop worrying about their cleanliness or the state of their clothes. Daily baths aren’t necessary; what they truly need are nutritious meals, ample exercise, and a little dirt. They might even benefit from tasting odd things or digging in their noses, though that’s a thought I’d rather not dwell on.
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Summary
Encouraging children to explore the outdoors and get dirty is crucial for their immune system development. Exposure to everyday germs can prevent allergies and asthma, fostering healthier adults. While it may be tempting to keep them clean, allowing them to engage with nature is beneficial for their overall growth.