Hand-Washing Techniques for Children

Hand-washing helps prevent the spread of the flu and other germs. Children as young as 3 years old should start learning how to wash their hands properly and why it is important. It is also important that they know when they should wash their hands. Good hygiene is important at any age. The best way to teach children is to lead by example.

When Should Children Wash Their Hands

• Teaching children to wash their hands after playing outside or with pets, and after using the restroom, is a good way to instill healthy habits in them. They also need to learn the importance of washing their hands before eating, so they do not get the germs from their hands in their food and into their systems. When sick, children should also wash their hands after coughing, sneezing or blowing their noses.

What Type of Water Should They Use

• Warm water is the best for getting clean hands. Make sure it is not too hot for little hands though. Warm water can help get the soap more sudsy and it will help get hands cleaner. The Red Cross recommends wetting hands with some water prior to applying soap, to make the soap spread more easily.

Soap Rules

• Liquid hand soaps are less drying and can be more fun for children. Pick a soap that contains an antibacterial to aid in killing all the germs that kids come in contact with on a daily basis. Teach them to scrub their hands with the soap for at least 20 seconds. Have them sing a short song, like "Happy Birthday," when they wash their hands so they know how long to do it. Then rinse with warm water. If they spent a lot of time playing in the dirt, they may need a second washing.

Drying Off

• Dry well-rinsed hands off with a clean towel. The Red Cross recommends a disposable towel be used and that children be taught to use that towel to turn off the faucet too, so germs do not end up back on their clean hands.