Keeping our children healthy is a constant juggle. We ensure they eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep, dress appropriately for the weather, and – of course – avoid germs whenever possible. But even the most vigilant parents can make mistakes when it comes to kids’ handwashing, a vital step in stopping the spread of illness.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 handwashing mistakes parents make and how to rectify them easily. We’ll also introduce a fantastic option for keeping your child’s hands clean and healthy: Ayurvedic handwash made with natural ingredients.
The Germy World Our Kids Explore
Children are naturally curious explorers. They delve into sandboxes, climb on swings, and cuddle their favourite stuffed animals – all hotbeds for bacteria and viruses. While these activities are essential for their development, they also expose them to many germs.
5 Handwashing Mistakes Parents Make (and How to Fix Them!)
- Skipping Handwashing After Playtime
It’s easy to forget handwashing in the post-play rush. But after a fun-filled afternoon outdoors, playing with other children, or interacting with pets, handwashing is crucial. Germs can linger on clothes, playground equipment, and even furry friends, making thorough handwashing a must.
Fix It: Create a handwashing routine after every playtime. It can be a simple reminder as they enter the house or a designated “clean hands” song before snack time.
- The Speedy Rinse
A quick splash under the faucet won’t do the trick! Germs love to hide in nooks and crannies, and a thorough wash is necessary to remove them effectively.
Fix It: Make handwashing fun! Sing a catchy song together that lasts at least 20 seconds, like “Happy Birthday” sung twice. This playful approach ensures proper washing time while keeping your little one engaged.
- Forgetting Key Germ Hideouts
While scrubbing palms is important, germs can be sneaky and hide in places we often forget. Fingernails, the backs of hands, and the areas between fingers are prime germ real estate.
Fix It: Turn handwashing into a game! Teach your child to create a lather with the soap and sing a silly song about scrubbing all the “germy hiding places.” Encourage them to wash their fingertips, wrists, and in between each finger for a thorough clean.
- Harsh Soaps for Delicate Skin
Adult soaps can become too harsh for a child’s sensitive skin, causing dryness, irritation, and even cracked skin. This can make them less likely to want to wash their hands frequently.
Fix It: Opt for a gentle, kids’ handwash formulated with natural ingredients. Look for options free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, and parabens, which can irritate or dry out their skin. Consider a fun, colourful handwash dispenser to add a touch of excitement to the handwashing routine.
- Handwashing: The Chore Nobody Wants
Let’s face it, handwashing can feel like a tedious chore for children. This often leads to resistance and incomplete washes.
Fix It: Make handwashing a fun and interactive experience! Decorate your handwashing station with colourful towels, stickers, or a fun soap dispenser. Create silly handwashing games, like counting the bubbles or pretending to “wash away the germs” with superhero strength.
Must Read: 150 Unique Indian Baby Girl Names with Meanings for Your Little Princess
The Power of Natural Ingredients: Ayurvedic Handwash for Kids
Now that we’ve addressed common handwashing mistakes, let’s explore a fantastic option for keeping your child’s hands clean and healthy: Ayurvedic handwash.
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasise on using the natural ingredients to promote well-being. Ayurvedic kids’ handwashes are crafted with botanical extracts and essential oils, making them a gentle yet effective solution for your child’s hand hygiene. Here are some potential benefits of using organic kids’ handwash:
- Natural Powerhouse: Unlike many conventional handwashes, there are no harsh chemicals or artificial perfumes in Ayurvedic handwashes. This makes them ideal for sensitive skin and less likely to irritate.
- Effective Germ Fighters: Ayurvedic or organic kids’ handwashes often include ingredients like Tulsi (holy basil), known for its antibacterial properties, and orange peel extract, a natural disinfectant. These ingredients can effectively cleanse hands and remove germs while being gentle on your child’s skin.
- Soothing and Moisturizing: Chamomile and rose oil, commonly found in Ayurvedic handwashes, have soothing and moisturizing properties. This can help prevent dryness and discomfort, especially important for frequent handwashing routines.
Keeping Your Child Healthy, Naturally
By correcting common handwashing mistakes and incorporating an Ayurvedic kids’ handwash into your routine, you can ensure your child’s hands are clean and healthy. Remember, frequent handwashing is one of the important methods to prevent the spread of illness and keep your little one healthy and happy.
Empowering Your Child’s Well-being
By making handwashing a fun and healthy habit, you’re not just keeping germs at bay – you’re empowering your child to take charge of their well-being. Involving them in choosing an organic kids’ handwash with a fun design or a pleasant scent can further encourage their participation.
Remember, a healthy child is a happy child! By following these tips and tricks, you can create a foundation for lifelong healthy habits that will benefit your child well into the future. So, ditch the harsh soaps, embrace the power of natural ingredients, and keep those little germs at bay!
Must Read: Healthy Habits: How to Introduce a Skincare Routine for Kids
