Hand-Washing Tips for Kids

Hand-washing is a key skill. A child with good hand-washing habits will suffer from fewer colds, stomach aches, and other problems, and this habit will last a lifetime, since hand-washing is the best way to eliminate bacteria and viruses at any age. It is especially important that your child wash his or her hands after petting an animal (including a pet), after getting home from a public place, and after using the washroom. Your child should also wash his or her hands before handing food, eating, and brushing their teeth. During the cold and flu season, teach your child to wash their hands more frequently.

There are many ways to teach your child to wash his or her hands. With younger children, try washing hands together. For older children, encourage your child to pick out a favorite towel, soap, and soap dispenser that can make hand washing fun. Make sure that your children see you washing your hands – this will reinforce the importance of hand washing. Be sure to explain to your child what germs are, what they can do, and why washing hands is important in combating germs and viruses.

In addition to encouraging your child to wash his or her hands, be sure to emphasize correct hand washing techniques. Hands should be thoroughly scrubbed at least 15 seconds with plenty soap and warm water. Any rings and watches should be removed before washing and attention should be paid to scrub under the nails, too. Encourage your child to wash up to the wrist area. After the hands are washed, they should be thoroughly dried using a clean towel.

Keep the hand washing area of your home clean and tidy. Replace towels often – daily if needed or switch to paper towels, since towels can grow bacteria. If you use bars of soap, use a soap dish with a drain so that bacteria does not grow on the soap. If possible, use a soap dispenser, which is more hygienic. Keep hand lotion in the area, too. Although children’s skin is far more elastic than adult skin, cold weather and frequent hand washing can take its toll and leave young hands feeling dry. An added benefit of hand lotion is that it can temporarily discourage your child from placing their hands in their mouth. Many young children do this and it does transfer bacteria to the hands.