National Handwashing Awareness Week: Healthy Habits Start Here
The first week of December marks National Handwashing Awareness Week, a perfect time to remind families about the importance of hand hygiene—especially for young children.
Handwashing may seem simple, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for preventing the spread of illness. Teaching children good handwashing habits early sets them up for a lifetime of wellness.
Handwashing Basics to Teach Kids:
When to Wash Hands:
Before meals.
After using the restroom.
After playing outdoors.
After sneezing, coughing, or blowing their nose.
How to Wash Hands:
Use soap and warm water.
Scrub for at least 20 seconds (or the length of singing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star").
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Fun Ways to Teach Handwashing to Kids:
Make It a Game: Use a timer or sing songs to make 20 seconds fly by.
Use Glitter: Rub glitter on their hands and challenge them to wash it all off, teaching the importance of thorough scrubbing.
Get Creative with Soap: Let kids choose fun, colorful soap or foamy options to make handwashing more engaging.
National Handwashing Awareness Week is a chance to instill lifelong habits in children that protect them—and everyone around them—from illness. It’s a simple yet powerful way to care for your family this season!
