It is impossible to keep hands free of germs, so washing them often and properly is necessary to avoid contracting or spreading illnesses, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is particularly important for children, who come into contact with viruses, bacteria and microbes at play and school. Also, younger children lack the sense to avoid touching contaminated surfaces. These germs lead to infection when transferred from the hands to the mouth, nose or eyes, so by following and imparting proper children's handwashing tips, you help keep your child healthy.
Trimmed Nails
Fingernails should be kept short on children. Dirt and germs can easily lodge beneath long fingernails, impeding effective hand washing, according to University of Florida assistant professor Amy Simonne, Ph.D., of the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences.
When to Wash
Children should always wash their hands after playing outside or with other kids or pets, before eating, after going to the bathroom, after blowing their nose or sneezing or coughing into their hands, after coming into contact with someone who is sick or after touching trash or other dirty surfaces.
How to Wash
The Mayo Clinic describes the proper way to wash hands, and the same should be taught to children. Wet your hands with warm water, lather on soap, rub vigorously for a full 20 seconds, being sure to cover all hand and finger surface area and the wrists. Rinse off the soap thoroughly with warm water and dry the hands. As sink faucet handles are often covered in germs, teach children to turn off the sink with a paper towel in public restrooms, as suggested by the University of Florida.
Soap Choice
Antibacterial soap isn't necessary, as the Mayo Clinic points out. In fact, it can do more harm than good, contributing to the development of bacteria that is resistant to antimicrobial products. Regular soap works just as well. The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) for the government of Ontario, Canada, also suggests the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. These are particularly useful when children have no access to hand-washing facilities, and the MOHLTC assures that they are safe for children's skin. The alcohol evaporates after application, but supervise young children as these antiseptics should not be swallowed.
Getting Children to Wash
Children are unlikely to wash their hands as well or as often as they should. When young, it should be done for them. Be sure to explain the importance of what you are doing and how it is done. Older children will likely need reminding to wash their hands. The University of Florida suggests teaching children to wash continually until they sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice to encourage adequate cleansing.
