Fun Ways To Get Your Children to Wash Their Hands

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In a world where proper hand washing techniques have never been more important, it is vital that we teach our children how to properly wash their hands.

As you know, the basics of effective hand washing are:

  • Using warm water to wet your hands.
  • Using soap to lather up your hands.
  • Rubbing your soaped up hands together, for no less than 20 seconds, scrubbing the entire hand and between the fingers all the way up to the wrist.
  • Rinsing your hands and wrist with running water.
  • Drying your hands using a clean towel, preferably disposable towel.

However, this seemingly easy process may become tedious when applied to young children.

Here are some fun ways to implement proper handwashing techniques to make your child more enthusiastic about hand hygiene:

  • Use soaps that have an inviting scent like, fruit or bubble gum.
  • Utilize a reward system. Keep a chart for your child with colorful stickers that indicate how many times they properly washed their hands on a particular day. If they are successful, a small reward at the end of the week can be a great motivator.
  • Choose songs to sing while washing or recite a children’s rhyme that lasts approximately 20 seconds.
  • Bubbles, lots of bubbles.  Choose a soap that foams up so that your child can equate washing their hands with a fun activity and not a chore.
  • Create a routine for your child to wash their hands, especially before and after mealtime.

Studies have shown that proper hand washing is one of the best ways to keep healthy and ward off harmful viruses and bacteria.

Remember, the best way to teach our children is by example. Be sure your child knows and observes how you are washing your hands. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.