Teaching and encouraging your child to wash their hands properly is an important part of potty training and an important life skill. You really can’t start hand washing too soon!
Importance of proper hand washing in children
1. Protect themselves and others: Children who wash their hands regularly are less likely to get sick and less likely to spread germs to others. Experts say that hygiene prevents infection in children. This is especially important for children who are in close contact with others, such as in nurseries or preschools.
2. Develop independence: Teaching children how to wash their hands properly helps them develop independence and self-care skills. As they get older, they will be able to take care of their own hygiene needs and stay healthy.
3. Reduce absenteeism: When children are sick, they miss school and other activities. This can have a negative impact on their academic and social development. Regular hand washing can help reduce the spread of germs and reduce absenteeism.
So teaching your child how to properly wash their hands is an essential life skill. It helps to protect their health and others, promote good hygiene habits, and develop independence. Here are some tricks to help you teach hand washing to your child.
Tips to teach hand washing to children
1. Make hand washing a habit: Teach your child that, after using the potty or toilet, they should always wash their hands with water AND soap. No… just water is not enough 😉 (Be ready to repeat this for the umpteenth time!)
2. Set a good example: Children learn best by example. Be sure to wash your hands frequently throughout the day. Especially before and after meals, and after using the bathroom.
3. Use positive reinforcement: Encourage your child to wash their hands. Praise them when they do it correctly.
4. Play a game: Use simple language to help your child understand. Washing their hands keeps them healthy and prevents the spread of germs. You can play “Spot the Dirt”. Put a small amount of glitter or cocoa powder on your child’s hands and ask them to wash it off. This will help them understand that hand washing removes dirt and germs.
5. Keep supplies handy: Keep soap and a towel within easy reach of the sink. This will make it easier for your child to wash their hands independently.
6. Be patient: Remember that learning to wash hands properly takes time and patience. Be consistent and encourage your child to keep trying, even if they don’t do it perfectly.
Teaching hand washing can be a messy business! Be ready for lots of splashing 😊. You may need to swipe the floor. This is also an opportunity to teach your child to clean up after themselves.
Tip: Put a mat under the bathroom sink to avoid anyone from slipping.
How to make it fun
Children are more likely to enjoy and remember washing their hands if it is made into a fun activity. Consider the following tips to make it a fun and interactive experience!
1. Sing a song: Encourage your child to sing a song while washing their hands. You can use popular nursery rhymes or make up your own song. This will help them remember to wash their hands for the recommended 20 seconds.
2. Use a timer: Set a timer for 20 seconds and have your child wash their hands until the timer goes off. This will help them understand how long they should be washing their hands. You can even have a little competition😊
Couldn’t set up a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
3. Use a visual aid: Hang a poster or picture near the sink that shows the steps and sequence of hand washing. This will help your child remember the proper way to wash their hands. To make it even more fun and personal: take and use pictures of your child going through each step. Make it bright and colorful to get your little one’s attention.
4. Turn hand washing into a show: Pretend that your child is a doctor washing their hands before surgery. Or a chef washing their hands before cooking. Have fun little surgeons and chefs!
Remember that children learn best through repetition and practice. Be patient and consistent with your hand-washing routine. Your child will soon learn to wash their hands like a pro!
For more tips on all things potty training, download the Go Potty app.
