Hand Washing Tips for Kids – Dec. 30, 2020

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. And it is more important than ever now to prevent the spread of Covid-19. At One Community Health, we understand that hand washing for kids can be a battle. It’s important that you teach your kids proper hand washing technique, but if you make it fun, it can be a more enjoyable experience for you and your children. 

When should kids wash their hands?

Teach your kids that they should wash their hands in the following situations. Consistency will help them develop good hand washing skills. 

• Before cooking or baking 
• Before eating 
• After using the restroom
• After cleaning 
• After touching pets
• After blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After playing outside 
• After being at a friend’s or relative’s house

Hand Washing for Kids and Adults

Quick steps for hand washing: 

1. Wet your hands with clean, warm water. Just make sure the water isn’t too hot!
2. Lather up with soap! 
3. Rub hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to scrub everywhere—between each of your fingers, the backs of your hands, your wrists, and under the nails. 
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

Hand Washing Tips For Kids

Parents and caretakers play an important role in children’s lives, and teaching them to wash their hands is no exception. Handwashing can become a lifelong healthy habit if you start teaching it at an early age. Here are some tips to teach kids how to wash their hands effectively, while also making it fun: 

• Lead by example—wash your hands with them. Young children learn by imitating trusted adults. 

• Hang a picture chart above the sink to remind them of each step. 

• Sing a song while washing. Kids love to rush through washing their hands. Singing a song will make it more fun and ensure they wash for 20 seconds. Good songs to use include:

• • Mary Had a Little Lamb
  • Row, Row, Row Your Boat
  • The ABCs
  • Happy Birthday 
  • Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

• Remind them regularly. Building handwashing skills takes time. At first, your child will need regular reminders of how and when to wash hands.

• Use a sticker chart. Stickers can be an effective incentive and can remind them of how well they are doing, rather than viewing hand washing as a chore or a punishment. 

• Make it a game. Fight the evil germs by scrubbing them away from all their sneaky hiding places. 

What if you don’t have access to soap and water?

Soap and water are the most effective way to kill germs. But if you don’t have access to these things, a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer will work until you do have access to soap and water. However, hand sanitizer should not replace soap and water. Similarly, baby wipes can help in a pinch, but they do not get rid of germs on your hands and should not be used in place of soap and water. 

Give us a Call 

Don’t underestimate the power of hand washing! The time you spend at the sink could keep your kids, and your whole family, healthy and safe, especially during this pandemic. At One Community Health, we believe that everyone has the right to access healthcare, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, orientation, or ability to pay. If you are looking for an affordable pediatrician in Sacramento, give us a call. We accept walk-ins, or you can make an appointment by calling 916-443-3299.

Image used under creative commons license – commercial use (12/29/2020) by Bessi from Pixabay