Hand washing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others.
Children, in particular, need to learn proper hand-washing techniques as they are more likely to be exposed to germs due to their frequent contact with other kids and their environment.
By teaching kids about hand hygiene, you can help them better protect themselves and the people around them. It is also essential for instilling values of responsibility and personal hygiene in them.
At the same time, kids can learn the importance of washing their hands before and after certain activities and why it is important to do so.
Therefore, continue reading to discover the importance of washing hands for kids, how you can teach them to properly wash their hands, and help them develop this better hygiene habits that can last a lifetime.
Let’s Start with the Importance of Washing Hands for Kids
When children learn the significance of washing their hands, they can gain an awareness of germs, bacteria, and how they spread. This, in turn, can help children understand how to keep themselves and others safe.
The following are some of the most important things that kids should know about hand washing.
1. Reduce the spread of germs
It is well known that proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Washing hands with soap and warm water helps to remove dirt, germs, and bacteria that can cause illnesses.
2. Prevent illnesses
When kids wash their hands regularly and thoroughly, they can help prevent the spread of illnesses like the common cold, the flu, and stomach bugs. Washing hands at the right times throughout the day can also help protect kids from illnesses like food poisoning and illnesses spread by contaminated surfaces.
3. Promote good hygiene
Teaching children the significance of washing their hands and how to do it appropriately from an early age will instil healthy cleanliness habits that will last throughout their lifetime. Additionally, explaining why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as to prevent the spread of germs, can help kids understand the purpose behind the habit.
4. Reduce allergies
Allergens are substances such as pollen, dust, and animal dander that can spread through the air, on clothing, and via contact with other people or animals. When kids wash their hands regularly, it helps to reduce the number of allergens that come into contact with their skin and body, which can lower their risk of developing allergies.
5. Reduce the spread of infections
Hand washing with soap and water can help minimise the spread of infections such as conjunctivitis and ringworm, both of which are common in children. By washing their hands frequently, kids can help stop germs from spreading and diseases from developing, all while enhancing their overall health and well-being.
When to Remind Your Kids to Wash Their Hands
Reminding children to wash their hands is one of the best ways to promote good hygiene habits and keep them healthy.
No matter how much you talk about the importance of washing hands, it can be difficult for children to remember to do it every time.
You cannot expect young kids to remember to wash their hands on their own and need to give them reminders and guidance.
And, you can also set a good example and make sure that hand–washing is a routine part of the family’s day.
Here are several situations in which children should be reminded to wash their hands.
- Before and after meals
- After using the restroom
- After playing outdoors
- Before and after handling food
- After touching animals
- After coughing or sneezing
- After blowing their nose
- After playing with friends and/or toys
- After coming home from school or other activities
- Before and after taking medication
- Prior to and after visiting or caring for sick friends or relatives
Kids should be reminded to wash their hands regularly to help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. This is especially important during cold and flu season when germs and viruses are more likely to be spread.
So, What Are the Step-By-Step of Proper Hand Washing?
Teaching kids the right way of washing hands is critical to ensuring cleanliness and hygiene.
Here are the steps:
- Wet hands with warm or cold water
- Apply soap and lather the hands and wrists
- Rub hands together for at least 20 seconds
- Scrub all surfaces of the hands, including the backs, palms, and between the fingers
- Rinse hands well with running water
- Dry hands with a clean paper towel or air dryer
- Use a clean towel or paper towel to turn off the tap
7 Creative Ways to Teach Your Kids Hand Washing
Teaching kids to wash their hands can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, parents can make it an enjoyable learning experience.
Explain the Importance of Washing Hands
The importance of washing hands should be explained to children in a manner they can understand. Let the kids know that washing hands is one of the best ways to stay healthy. For example, it can help to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria which can cause illnesses and make them sick.
Inform them that hand washing is as important as other hygiene practices, especially now that they’re back at school. They should also know about alcohol-based sanitizer and when it is appropriate to use it.
Show Them How to Do It
When you lead by example, you are demonstrating the importance of handwashing and the need to practice good hygiene. Show them how to wet their hands with warm water, lather up with soap, scrub for 20 seconds, rinse, and drying hands with a clean towel.
Furthermore, teaching children proper handwashing techniques helps them develop good habits that they can carry with them throughout their lives. You can create a healthier home environment and help keep everyone safe from germs and illnesses.
Make It Fun
Washing hands is an important task for kids to learn, as it helps protect them from germs and illnesses. Unfortunately, it isn’t always the most exciting chore for kids, so you need to make the process fun for them.
Singing a song or playing a game while washing hands can help make it more enjoyable. For example, you could try singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while washing or counting to 20. Encourage them to sing along, and make sure to keep it light and upbeat.
Choose the Right Soap
You can also make handwashing more fun by letting your kids choose their own soap. Let them pick out a fun, brightly-coloured soap with a pleasant smell. This will encourage them to wash their hands more often.
You can also add an extra element of fun by letting them pick out their own washcloth or hand towel.
Creative Reminder for Hand Washing
Make sure your child is washing their hands properly and for the right amount of time. Put a reminder note near the sink or set a timer to remind your child when it’s time to wash their hands.
You can also hang a chart in the bathroom with a checkmark for each time the kids wash their hands. This will help them to stay accountable and keep track of their progress.
Praise Them
Praise is an important part of parenting and it can be a powerful tool to encourage children to do the right thing. When you catch your child washing their hands properly, give them praise and positive reinforcement.
It’s important to be specific when praising a child for watching their hands properly. A simple “good job!” or “you did it right!” is enough to show your appreciation and provide positive reinforcement. Be sure to praise the behaviour in the moment, as this will make it more meaningful and effective.
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Teach Proper Hand Washing from a Young Age
Hand washing is a critical part of good hygiene, and teaching kids to do it correctly at an early age will help protect them from illness and disease.
All you need is a little patience, practice, and instruction, and you’re on your way to helping your children learn to properly wash their hands and keep them healthy.
Mummies, we believe you’ve got this hand washing thing down pat! 😉
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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