Fact-checked and medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
And yet it’s one of the best ways for keeping the whole family healthy.
All it takes is regular handwashing.
Read on to find out the best way to do it.
It can be cold, hot (but not too hot) or lukewarm.
The temperature really doesn’t matter.
Then turn off the tap after your child’s hands are nice and wet.
And plain soap does the trick (no need forantibacterial soap, which can contribute to antibiotic resistance).
Rinse
Turn on the tap and wash all that soapy grime away.
Again, the water can be cold or lukewarm.
Shake ‘em off
Show your toddler how to shake her hands to get the water off.
Let them air dry.
When should kids wash their hands?
Just as important as knowing how to teach kids to wash their hands is knowing when.
Those tiny hands get into a whole lot of messes where they can easily pick up bacteria or viruses.
About 20 seconds, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
See below for some kid classics.
), especially if her birthday is many months away.
There are many pop and current kid tunes out there that lend themselves to handwashing songs.
A step stool and faucet extender can make this easier at home.
Some tips that go a long way:
Of course, you have to model handwashing too.
And let your child see (or hear) you lather up after you’ve used the bathroom.
