Using educational interventions to improve the handwashing habits of preschool children

Abstract

The effectiveness of educational activities on changing the handwashing habits of preschool children was evaluated using parental surveys and direct observations. Baseline handwashing behaviors were observed and recorded, and parents completed a pre‐intervention survey. After interventions were administered, post‐intervention data was collected on preschoolers' handwashing habits. Children participated in one, three or five handwashing intervention activities. Results of this study indicate that the educational activities implemented resulted in increased knowledge of the importance of proper handwashing and in positive changes in the children's handwashing habits, particularly for the children who participated in all five interventions.