Effective hygiene practices for young children

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever for your child to learn about and practice good hygiene. At Learning Ladder, we do everything we can to ensure that your child enjoys a safe and clean environment and that they learn about good hygiene.

Here are some tips to keep your family healthy and clean.

Handwashing

Handwashing is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage your child to wash their hands regularly, especially:

• After using the toilet.
• Before and after eating or preparing food.
• After coughing or sneezing.
• After touching animals.
• After handling garbage.
• If their hands are visibly dirty.
  
  

You can teach your child proper handwashing techniques, including using soap and water and scrubbing their hands for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser is a good alternative.

Make it fun by singing a song or making up a game to play while your child washes their hands.

Coughing and sneezing

Coughing and sneezing are some of the quickest ways to spread germs. If your child needs to sneeze, remind them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue and throw the tissue away after use. If no tissue is available, show your child how to cough or sneeze into their armpit or elbow, explaining that this helps avoid spreading germs. Remember to reiterate the importance of washing their hands after coughing and sneezing. You can reinforce this positive behaviour by telling your child what a good job they’ve done.

Bathing

Bathing as a part of your child’s bedtime routine is a nice way to end a day at childcare. Not only is this a calming activity for your child, but it will also help remove any germs they may have picked up from other children or surfaces.

Cooking and eating hygiene

Cooking and eating hygiene are also important for preventing illness. Besides washing hands before and after eating, encourage your child to place dishes in the dishwasher after cooking and eating.

Leading by example

Model good hygiene habits for your child so they can see how important they are. Wash your hands regularly, cough into your sleeve and don’t share food or drinks with others.

By following these tips and educating your child about good hygiene, you’re doing everything in your power to keep your family healthy and safe from illness.

To learn more about Learning Ladder’s hygiene practices or for more fun ways to teach your child about good hygiene, please contact us today.