Handwashing

Parents of young children 

Handwashing is an easy, inexpensive, and effective way to help your family stay healthy. Studies have shown that handwashing can prevent diarrhea-related sicknesses and respiratory infections, such as a cold or the flu. When your family is healthy, you don't have to worry about missing school, work, or other activities.

Help your child/children make handwashing a healthy habit at home, school, and play by:

• Teaching kids the five easy steps for handwashing and the key times to wash hands (*such as after using the bathroom and before eating).

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice or the "ABCs" from beginning to "next time won't you sing with me."

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

• Giving frequent reminders so that handwashing becomes a habit and a regular part of your child's day.

• Leading by example by washing your hands.

Reference, and to learn more:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Life is Better with Clean Hands campaign