Germs are everywhere! It's that time of year with the weather changing and holiday stress when little ones start to get sick. The hard part is that they don't understand when they wipe snot across their face with their little hand, that they are making it worse! If it hasn't happened yet, now is a great time to teach them about washing their hands!
1. Make it easy to do. The more they struggle, the less likely they are to continue the habit. Use a kids step stool.
Or here's another idea, the faucet extender, if the stool still isn't high enough.
2. Make sure they see you washing your hands too. Kids learn better from watching you then just hearing it alone so make sure you give plenty of example yourself.
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3. Have a hand washing chart. Kids love to be able to check something off for a visual of their accomplishment. Here's our sample chart you can download here.
4. Make it a habit by letting them know consistently what time their hands should be washed. Before meals and after using the bathroom are the most common ones to remember.
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5. Explain germs to your kids and how they make you sick. If they are struggling with the concept, here are a few books that might help.
A Germ's Journey is for around 6- 8 years old.
'Germs make me sick!' is for kids around 4 to 8 and I remember reading this one when I was little.
Germs are not for sharing is for ages 4 and up.
6. Keep repeating the process. Kids need repetition to learn and make a habit so if they don't get it at first, keep trying!
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7. Make it fun with cute soaps that catch their attention.
There are tons are soap dispensers targeted at kids. Whether Cookie Monster, a rubber ducky, Ninja Turtles, or prehistoric creatures.
Or maybe these block soaps will do the trick. In the shape of Lego's, Darth Vader heads, or just bright flowers, it's all exciting!
8. Teach your kids a hand washing song they can sing that lets them know how long they should keep washing. Print out this copy and post it next to the sink if they need help remembering.
Did you know...
October 15th is considered Global Hand Washing Day and acknowledged throughout the world as a day to promote awareness. Use the opportunity to inform those around you and remind them how important it is to use soap and water!