3.1 Handwashing

Why Handwashing Matters
Handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Every day, we come in contact with countless germs, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, that can make us sick. These germs spread easily through people and objects, but regular handwashing can help reduce this risk by up to 50%! In fact, research shows that our hands are the main way infections spread. So, learning when and how to wash hands is key to staying healthy.

A. Materials and Equipment for Handwashing

Sinks
To make handwashing easy for kids, sinks should be at their height or have steps available. This setup helps protect caregivers from lifting children while making it easy for kids to reach the sink. Use separate sinks for handwashing, food prep, and bathroom routines if possible to reduce contamination.

Soap and Towels

  • Soap: Liquid soap is best because it’s easier to use and keeps germs away. Avoid strong germ-killing soaps, as these can irritate skin and make bacteria harder to kill over time.
  • Drying: Disposable paper towels are ideal to avoid spreading germs. Electric dryers take longer and can break, so they’re not recommended.
  • Trash Cans: Place a trash can near every sink to avoid messes. Cans with foot pedals help avoid contact with germs on the lid.

B. When to Wash Hands

Washing hands is only effective if done at the right times. Here are some key times to wash hands for both adults and kids:

  • When arriving for the day
  • Before and after meals
  • After using the toilet or changing diapers
  • After coughing, sneezing, or touching bodily fluids
  • After touching pets or animals
  • Before and after helping with food
  • After touching anything that might have germs, like sand or dirt

C. How to Wash Hands Properly

There’s more to washing hands than just using soap and water! Here’s the best way to make sure hands are clean:

  • Wet Hands: Start by wetting hands with warm water.
  • Add Soap: Squirt some soap onto hands.
  • Scrub for 20 Seconds: Rub hands together, making sure to get between fingers, under nails, and on the wrists.
  • Rinse Well: Let water rinse off all the soap.
  • Dry Completely: Use a paper towel to dry hands and then use it to turn off the faucet.

Note: For very young children who can’t reach the sink, a caregiver can wash their hands using a wet, soapy washcloth. However, nothing beats a good rinse at the sink!

D. Setting a Good Example

Kids learn by watching the adults around them, so it’s important for educators and caregivers to wash their hands at key times, like after using the restroom or before eating. When adults wash their hands regularly, kids are more likely to follow along.

E. Fun Handwashing Activities and Games

Since kids wash their hands so many times each day, adding a little fun can make it more enjoyable. Here are some ways to make handwashing exciting:

  • Go to the Sink in a Fun Way: Walk on tiptoes, march, or make it a “secret mission” to the sink.
  • Pick Who Washes Next: Draw a name from a hat or pick based on what kids are wearing.
  • Use Fun Smelling Soap: If there are no allergies, fruity-scented soap can make handwashing more fun.
  • “Clean Hand Boxes”: Create a special box of toys or activities that kids can only use after washing their hands.

Singing songs while washing hands can help kids time their scrubbing and make it more fun. Here’s an example to the tune of “Here We Go ‘Round the Mulberry Bush”:

“This is the way we wash our hands,
Wash our hands, wash our hands.
This is the way we wash our hands,
Before we eat our meal!”

Healthy Habits for Life

By learning to wash hands at the right times and in the right way, children can develop lifelong healthy habits that protect them from illnesses. Next, let’s look at Brushing teeth and how you can make this a fun activity!