Fun Handwashing Ideas for Kids
In honor of National Handwashing Awareness Week, parents everywhere are nodding in agreement at the importance of instilling good hygiene habits in their children. At Angleton ER, we understand the challenges parents face in making handwashing less of a chore and more of a fun and educational activity. In this article, we’ll explore the vital reasons behind teaching kids proper handwashing techniques and share some creative and enjoyable tips to make this essential habit stick.
Why Handwashing Matters
Proper handwashing isn’t just a mundane task; it’s a powerful tool for preventing children from falling prey to illnesses. Teaching your kids the correct way to wash their hands can shield them from various infections, including the common cold, flu viruses, hepatitis A, meningitis, bronchiolitis, and different types of diarrhea. Let’s delve into the proper handwashing techniques recommended by health experts.
The Right Way to Wash Your Hands
Research conducted by Michigan State University in 2013 revealed that a staggering 95% of people do not wash their hands properly. To ensure your children are part of the 5% practicing good hand hygiene, follow these steps recommended by the CDC:
- Wet your hands with water (temperature does not matter).
- Lather your hands with soap, ensuring you apply soap to the back of your hands as well.
- Scrub your hands for 20 seconds or more, including the back of your hands, wrists, in between fingers, and under the fingernails.
- Rinse with plenty of water.
- Dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel or air dryer.
Fun Ways to Make Handwashing Exciting for Kids:
Sing a Handwashing Song:
Encourage your kids to sing a fun song while washing their hands. Instead of the traditional “Happy Birthday” song, create a unique tune or use a popular one sung to the melody of “Row your Boat.” For example: “Wash, wash, wash your hands, wash them nice and clean. Scrub the fronts and scrub the backs and scrub the in-between.” Sing it at least twice for the recommended 20 seconds.
Buy Playful Soaps:
Kids love to play, so why not let them play with their soap? Invest in fun-shaped soap bars or liquid soap featuring their favorite characters. Turning handwashing into a playful experience can make it more appealing to children.
Get Creative with Activities:
Transform handwashing into an interactive and creative experience:
– Mix glitter with water in a spray bottle; have them wash their hands and turn it into a friendly competition to see who can remove the glitter first.
– Teach them how to blow soap bubbles after proper handwashing.
– Introduce a game where they eliminate pesky germs by making funny noises while scrubbing.
Teaching your children proper handwashing techniques is an investment in their long-term health. While these fun and creative tips can make the process enjoyable, it’s crucial to emphasize the significance of hand hygiene. At Angleton ER, we understand that despite the best preventive measures, illnesses can still occur. If your little ones fall sick, remember that we’re here for you 24/7, ready to provide the care they need to get back to health and enjoy the holidays.
Where to go in Case of an Emergency?
It’s vital to keep a list of hospitals and ER centers near your home in case you suffer a medical emergency.
Call 911 if anyone in your family sustains a life-threatening injury.
At Angleton ER, our doors remain open to provide care for you and your family.
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