In my childhood, my older brother frequently found himself at the pediatrician’s office. On one visit, the doctor, perhaps exasperated by the regularity of my brother’s colds, turned to my mother and advised, “You need to let him get dirty.” I can picture my freshly bathed brother, dressed in a pristine outfit, seemingly untouched by the outside world.
My mother was taken aback. After longing for a child, she was determined to do everything right. Surely, keeping him safe from germs was part of that—bathing him daily and ensuring his hands were free from dirt. However, as it turns out, the pediatrician from the late 1970s was onto something significant. Research indicates that exposure to germs plays a crucial role in an infant’s health. According to WebMD, babies who encounter various germs during their formative years are less prone to developing asthma and allergies in adulthood.
Despite her initial hesitation, my mother took the doctor’s advice to heart, motivated by her desire to keep my brother healthy. Gradually, she allowed him to explore the outdoors, and his frequent illnesses began to diminish. By the time I arrived on the scene, I was a regular in the dirt, rolling around with all kinds of critters.
Why Getting Dirty is Essential
Children need to engage with the world around them—getting dirty is essential. Dr. Samuel Rivers, a researcher at the University of California, emphasizes that a young immune system benefits from daily exposure to common germs, as it helps it learn and adapt. Our immune systems require challenges; otherwise, they might become complacent.
Historically, humans have coexisted with microbes and bacteria, which are not only prevalent in our environment but also within our bodies. In fact, a surprising fact reveals that nonhuman cells in our bodies outnumber our human cells by three to ten times. This includes various microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, which coexist with us. Given this reality, it stands to reason that we shouldn’t strive to eliminate every bacteria from our lives.
Moreover, the continuous use of antibacterial products is problematic; studies show they offer no additional benefits compared to regular soap and water and may even contribute to the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria.
Encouraging Exploration
Children should be encouraged to immerse themselves in nature, catching worms, splashing in puddles, and smearing mud on their faces without our constant supervision. We need to relax our standards of cleanliness—daily baths aren’t necessary. What kids truly need are nutritious meals, plenty of physical activity, and yes, some dirt.
While it may be uncomfortable to think about, kids might even benefit from the occasional taste of their own boogers.
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Conclusion
In summary, allowing children to experience the dirt and germs of their surroundings is essential for their immune system development. Instead of hovering and worrying about cleanliness, we should embrace the messiness of childhood.
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