Should Children Play in Dirt? Grandma's opinion...

Grandma Says: Let Them Play in the Dirt

"In our time, children rolled in the dirt from morning till night," Grandma chuckled. "We climbed trees, rolled on the ground, even slept on mats outside. Nobody carried hand sanitizer. And see us—we grew strong!"

I laughed, because in many ways she was right. Today, parents worry endlessly about germs. A child touches the floor, and we rush with wipes. They play outside, and we want to bathe them twice. But Grandma raises a valid point: does playing in the dirt actually help children, or does it harm them?

What Science Says

There’s some truth in Grandma’s wisdom. Modern researchers talk about the “hygiene hypothesis.” The idea is that early exposure to microbes (the harmless ones) helps train a child’s immune system. Children who grow up in overly sterile environments may have higher risks of allergies, asthma, and certain autoimmune conditions.

So yes, letting children play outdoors, touch soil, or be around pets can help their immunity develop naturally.

But here’s the catch: not all dirt is good dirt.

The Risks We Must Not Ignore

Soil can also harbor germs that cause serious illness:

• Worms (helminths) → leading to anemia, malnutrition, stunted growth.

• Bacteria like E. coli or cholera → diarrhea and dehydration.

• Tetanus spores → life-threatening infections, especially with cuts.

• Animal droppings in soil → dangerous parasites and infections.

Grandma’s generation may have survived, but many children back then also battled worm infestations, malnutrition, and preventable diseases—things we now know how to protect against.

Finding the Balance

So, how do we take Grandma’s wisdom without risking children’s health?

✅ Encourage outdoor play – climbing, running, gardening, exploring nature.

✅ Choose safe environments – clean backyards, parks, or supervised spaces (not open drains or dirty sand heaps).

✅ Teach handwashing – before eating, after play.

✅ Stay updated with vaccines – especially tetanus.

✅ Routine deworming – for children in areas where worms are common.

This way, children enjoy the benefits of exposure without unnecessary risks.

Takeaway from Grandma

"Make pikin play oh, but no forget to wash hand. Dirt wey build strength no suppose bring sickness."

In other words: let them play, but protect them wisely.

See you soon.....