Summit Health pediatrician Dr. Johanna Kaufman reminds parents that handwashing can become a lifelong habit if you start teaching it at an early age. Below are her recommendations for turning handwashing into a healthy habit.

• Remind children that by washing their hands they can help prevent themselves and others from becoming sick.
• Children learn by watching, so lead by example and make sure that throughout the day you are demonstrating proper technique:
  • Get your hands wet and soapy.
  • Scrub for at least 20 seconds making sure to clean your palms, the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  • Rinse your hands fully with water.
  • Dry your hands with a clean towel or hand dryer.
• Give children regular reminders of when to wash their hands, which includes:
  • Before and after eating
  • Before and after touching a cut or scrape
  • Before and after touching their nose, mouth, or eyes
  • After going to the bathroom
  • After playing with pets
  • After playing at the playground
• Little ones may need a boost, so keep a step stool handy and make sure the soap is well within their reach.
• Make the experience a little more fun for the younger crowd by singing a song or turning it into a game to ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds. Singing Happy Birthday twice in a row usually does the trick.
• Be patient. As with anything, forming habits take repetition and time!

Johanna Kaufman, MD, FAAP is a member of Summit Health's Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine team. Dr. Kaufman specializes in general pediatric care from newborn to adolescence with a focus on preventive health.