One of the simplest, most affordable, and most effective ways to protect your child from illness is to encourage proper and frequent handwashing.

Here are some tips to help make handwashing a lifelong healthy habit:

1. Explain the benefits of handwashing
Let your child understand that handwashing helps protect them and others from germs like bacteria and viruses that can cause illness. Even though germs cannot be seen, they are still present. Emphasize that washing hands is just as important as brushing teeth or eating healthy meals.

2. Demonstrate proper handwashing steps
Teach your child the correct steps for effective handwashing:
Step 1: Wet hands with running water
Step 2: Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces
Step 3: Scrub thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, including the back of hands, between fingers, and under nails
Step 4: Rinse well under running water
Step 5: Dry with a clean towel or single-use tissue

3. Teach your child how long to wash hands
Hands should be washed with soap for at least 20–30 seconds. A simple way to time this is by singing “Happy Birthday” twice.

4. Encourage frequent handwashing throughout the day, especially:
• When hands are visibly dirty
• Before and after eating
• After using the toilet
• After touching animals or pets
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose