When children’s tiny little hands make contact with the door handle, swings, elevator buttons, rails, sand, rocks, and more, they risk the spread of germs. The germs can make and you sick.
When you lean in to grab those little hands, the germs can transfer over to you. Hence, you need to teach your kids the importance of washing their hands. It is an extremely important habit to build and acquire growing up. Parents need to sit down with their children and teach them the following hand washing habit:
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Wash Your Hands After and Before a Meal
Children should wash their hands both after and before eating a meal. You can tell your child to carry a hand sanitizer if they do not have access to a washroom. You can carry wet wipes in your bag when going out.
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Use Soap and Water
Children should not wash their hands with water and think the task is done. They should combine water with soap to clean their hands. You can trick your child into using the soap by purchasing a foamy and colorful soap. Once your child has washed their hands, tell them to dry them completely with a towel. People should not use their hands and face towel to clean anything else.
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Wash Hands for 20 Seconds
Children should wash their hands for 20 seconds. Parents with a toddler can sing the “ABC” or “Happy Birthday” song while washing their little ones hands. You can tell older children to sing or hum the song while washing their hands.
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Place a Step Stool Next to the Sink
Children who are unable to reach the sink will need the help of a step stool. You can place a step stool near the sink to make it easier for them to wash their hands. This will allow them to wash their hands without needing your assistance.
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Make It Routine
Parents should make an announcement to wash hands before every meal so it becomes a routine habit. Make the same announcement when your child sneezes or uses the bathroom.
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Be Their Role Model
Parents should wash their hands too. Your children need to see you washing your hands after every meal. You can also show your child about how they should sneeze in the crook of their elbow. At school, you can tell your children’s teacher to reinforce the hand washing habit.
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Read to Your Child
Parents need to educate their child about practicing good hygiene habits. They need to read to their child books and purchase them books they can read themselves. If your child cannot read, buy picture books for them and go through them together.
It is important for both parents and children to wash their hands. Parents need to start educating their children about washing their hands at a young age. It is also important for parents to bring their child to the Pediatric Healthcare of Northwest Houston for a physical check to ensure their well-being.
