Handwashing Tips

Handwashing Help

Keeping your hands clean is one of the most important things everyone can do to avoid getting sick and spreading germs. Many illnesses are spread by not washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends cleaning hands for a full 20 seconds to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.

Helping your child live healthy when they’re young can help them develop healthy habits for life. Below are some talking points and tips to help you discuss the importance of hand washing with your little one.

你能说的

Germs can make us sick when they get inside of our bodies. While we can’t see germs with our eyes, they are everywhere – toys, crayons, tables, bathrooms – even on us. Our skin keeps germs on the outside of our bodies, but if you put your fingers in your mouth, touch your face, or eat without washing your hands, germs can get inside us and they could us sick. The best way to get rid of germs is washing your hands!

What you can do

Show and explain how to wash hands by using the following steps:

• Turn on the sink
• Wet hands
• Use one pump of soap
• Scrub hands and count, or sing, for 20 seconds. Using songs like “Happy Birthday” or “ABCs” provides good timing for handwashing.
• While you’re washing, don’t forget the back of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails
• Rinse your hands to get all the soap off
• Dry hands with paper towel or dry hands under power dryer or a towel at home not on your pants
• You can also use hand sanitizer by squeezing a small drop into your hands and rub hands together until completely dry

Handwashing Coloring Sheet

We want your kids to have fun while learning about the importance of handwashing. Print out our coloring sheets below:

• Clean Hands Club - Boys
• Clean Hands Club - Girls