Tip of the Week: Make Healthy Habits Such As Handwashing Fun
September is a great time for caregivers to establish healthy habits - such as handwashing - for children that will last all year long, said Dominique R. Webster-Outten, ELRC Region 5’s health and safety coach.
Have Fun While Hand Washing
As children settle into a new school year in September, consistent routines will help them to feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Webster-Outten said that caregivers should take time to review proper handwashing with children by making it fun. They should help children to practice washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the restroom, after outdoor play, and after coughing or sneezing.
One way to make the activity fun is to sing a short song while washing, which can help children wash long enough and build a healthy habit.
To help reinforce this healthy habit, caregivers should:
Model proper handwashing throughout the day.
Reinforce covering coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue.
Clean and sanitize high-touch surfaces regularly.
Encourage families to keep children home when they are ill to help prevent the spread of illness.
Creating small, consistent routines in September can create healthier classrooms, reduce the spread of germs, and help every child to have a successful start to the school year.
For more information, check out these resources:
About Hand Hygiene in Schools and Early Care and Education Settings, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
About Hand Hygiene as a Family Activity, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
How to Help Kids Form Good Habits, The Kids Mental Health Foundation