Talk to any parent and they’ll tell you that kids are like sponges -- and it’s true! They absorb everything around them, from new words and sounds to complex ideas and feelings. They’re constantly taking in and analyzing their environment: sights, tastes, smells -- everything is new! That’s what makes essential oils such an amazing tool for kids: they’re an empowering way of introducing children to plants, nature, health, creativity, and exploration in a way that is safe and completely natural.

Much like sponges, kids are also physically absorbent, making them more sensitive to materials than adults. Since their skin is thinner and more porous, they are more sensitive to the effects of essential oils on their skin. Because of this, it’s very important to gradually introduce your child to essential oils. This ensures that your child can safely enjoy the therapeutic effects of essential oils without the risk of irritating sensitive skin, allergies, side effects, or simply just not enjoying smell! 

To start, you can introduce your child to essential oils by doing a small spot test on a patch of your child’s skin. Dilute one drop of essential oil with one tablespoon of carrier oil, and apply to a small patch of skin. If they do not exhibit any side effects, gradually increase to one drop of essential oil diluted in two teaspoons of carrier oil. From there, you can dilute the oils to use topically for your child, or diffuse them as you would normally! 

For more tips on diluting your essential oils with carrier oil, click here.

You can use essential oils with your kids in the same ways that you would for yourself, such as with an:

• Oil diffuser
• Diffuser jewelry
• Topically (diluted with a carrier oil)
• DIYs and recipes

Check out our DIY Monster Spray Recipe + Sleep Routine for Kids

• Make sure to stay away from more pungent oils, such as peppermint, rosemary, and wintergreen -- these oils have compounds that can trigger sensitive respiratory systems, which could potentially lead to respiratory issues in children. To prevent ingesting oils, keep them stored in a safe, secure location,  out of reach of your little ones. 

• As always, we ask that you consult with a doctor with any questions about allergies, drug interactions, or any other potential medical questions. Not to be ingested -- keep out of reach of children and pets.