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Want to transform handwashing into an enjoyable and enduring routine for your children? Take a look at these straightforward suggestions to help keep your youngsters clean, healthy, and free from germs!
Why Handwashing is Important
Handwashing is much more than merely a routine; it’s a mighty skill! Inform your children that cleaning their hands aids in maintaining good health by eliminating germs that may cause illness. Additionally, when they wash their hands, they’re safeguarding their friends, family, and classmates from germs as well. It’s all about being a hero!
When to Clean Those Hands
Incorporate handwashing into your kid’s routine during these crucial moments:
Before:
- Eating (since food tastes best when it’s germ-free!)
- Touching their face — mouth, nose, or eyes
- Dealing with a cut or scrape (to prevent germs from sneaking in)
After:
- Using the restroom
- Interacting with pets or animals (including giving them treats or food)
- Playing on the playground
- Returning home from school
- Being around someone who is unwell
- Changing a diaper
- Handling trash
- Sneezing, coughing, or wiping their nose
The 4 Fun Steps to Clean Hands
Washing hands doesn’t have to be a tedious task! Just follow these four simple steps:
- Get Soapy: Run the water (either warm or cold will work) and wet those hands. Apply some soap, rub hands together, and create bubbly suds.
- Scrub, scrub, scrub: Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds — enough time to sing “Happy Birthday” two times. Remember to clean the palms, the back of the hands, and between the fingers. And don’t forget beneath the nails — germs enjoy hiding there.
- Rinse: Hold your hands under clean, running water. Rub to wash away the soap.
- Shake & Dry: Shake those hands a few times and dry them with a clean towel or hand dryer. Clean hands are prepared to go!
- Optional: apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to the hands after washing during the winter months to prevent dryness.
When to Use Hand Sanitizer
Sometimes soap and water aren’t within reach. That’s where hand sanitizer comes into play! But remember — hand sanitizer is most effective when hands aren’t visibly soiled or greasy. It’s a good alternative when you’re on the move, but soap and water remain the primary choices whenever possible. Select a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and follow these steps:
- Squirt: Dispense a dime-sized quantity of hand sanitizer into their palm.
- Rub: Have them rub their hands together — front, back, and between the fingers — until dry.
Tips for Success
- Lead by Example: Children learn best by observing you. Ensure you wash your hands before cooking or eating, after using the restroom, and any time your hands become dirty.
- Be Patient: It can take some time for your child to master proper handwashing techniques. Provide ample assistance and encouragement as they cultivate this healthy habit.
- Remind Them Frequently: Kids are proficient at washing their hands when dirt is visible, but they might need prompts to wash away the germs they cannot see.
With a bit of practice and patience, your children will soon become handwashing superheroes — ready to combat germs!
Dr. Sarah Bourne is a pediatrician affiliated with Barton Pediatrics, providing care to infants, children, and teenagers, including well-child examinations. Discover more about pediatric services at Barton Health by calling 530.543.5623 or visiting BartonHealth.org.
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