Washing your hands often is important for people of all ages to avoid getting sick. However, regular handwashing for kids can be a tough sell.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that good handwashing can lower illness by about 20 percent. To reinforce this healthy habit with your little one, use some of the tips below to make handwashing fun.
Basic handwashing for kids
Kids need to learn how to wash their hands correctly.
Washing your hands properly is important. This is true whether you are preparing for fall and winter or focusing on hygiene because it helps stop the spread of germs. Explain to your child that washing hands the right way helps remove many germs.
The basics of handwashing include scrubbing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before rinsing under running water. This is especially necessary when your child’s hands are visibly dirty. If you are out and about or don’t have soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Just be sure to use one that is at least 60 percent alcohol.
For more tips, check out our guide to correct handwashing.
Handwashing tips for toddlers
Parents and caregivers need to help toddlers wash their hands, but this age isn’t too early to begin instilling this healthy habit.
Start building this practice by helping toddlers wash their hands at regular times. For example, help them wash their hands after using the bathroom, before and after meals as well as after playing at the playground. Getting them used to what they should associate with handwashing will help make this a habit.
You can make handwashing a fun task for toddlers by having a song of the week for handwashing. This can be a familiar song or even a song you make up. Also, if a toddler is resistant, suggest they wash a toy’s hands or your own hands to help them learn the process.
Handwashing tips for preschoolers
Preschoolers can learn to wash their hands independently. An adult should supervise to ensure thoroughness, but allowing them to do this themselves helps to foster their independence.
At this age, you can start using a timer to make sure they begin to recognize how long they should be washing. Offering different types of soap, like fun-shaped bars or holiday-themed bottles, can make this healthy habit more fun. Encourage your preschooler to figure out their favorite scented soap.
And if you have a little more time on your hands (no pun intended) make bars of soap as a family craft project. Using their own soap will make the handwashing process more fun for your preschooler.
How we can help
Regular handwashing for kids and adults alike is key to staying well in any season. But did you know children ages 6 months and older are eligible to get a flu shot ? One of our pediatricians explains why this is the best way you can protect your family this flu season.
Learn about the pediatric services we offer at Bon Secours.
