5 Ways to Make Handwashing Fun for Kids

Many parents with young children know that getting your kids to wash their hands can be a battle. However, if you make the activity fun, your children will be more likely to become receptive to washing regularly. We have some ideas!

Sing a song

Children, especially those who are younger, love music and often retain new information better if it is taught to them along to a tune. Singing the “happy birthday” song twice is a good method to use when teaching them to wash their hands, or you could come up with your own unique 20-second song!

Use a sticker chart

Positive reinforcement is a great method to use to get your child to start a new habit. Every time they remember to wash their hands, put a sticker on their chart. After they reach a set number of stickers, reward them with a tasty snack or an activity they enjoy. Once they associate the activity of hand washing with a positive experience, they’ll be more likely to do it on their own.

Make homemade soap

Your children naturally love bonding with you, so why not look up some instructions on how to make simple homemade soap for a craft activity? As you’re creating colorful and interesting soap, you can teach your child how it works and the importance of using it. It’ll create a positive memory in their mind associated to soap, hand washing, and general hygiene.

Hang fun posters in their bathroom

Even if your child pays close attention when you talk with them about washing their hands, they might forget when or how to do it themselves later. If they’re of reading age and you post a colorful and interesting infographic next to the mirror in their bathroom, the instructions and reminder will help them make hand washing a habit.

Try washable markers

If you need to teach your child just how much and how long to wash their hands for, try lightly drawing smiley faces on the backs of their hands with a washable marker. Let them wash until the smiley faces are gone. If you do that regularly, they’ll be more likely to form the habit of washing their hands thoroughly.

Teaching children about proper hygiene may be a challenge, but it is a totally doable task. The key is to make it fun! Next time you’re struggling to get your child to remember to wash their hands, try one of these tips and let us know how it goes!