Education: 6 steps to hand washing for infection prevention in children
Keywords:
clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS), early childhood, handwashingAbstract
Handwashing and toothbrushing habits are part of Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) that are effective in preventing infectious diseases in early childhood. However, the implementation of PHBS in schools still faces challenges, such as limited facilities, lack of teacher role models, and children’s low level of understanding. This community service activity was carried out at TK PKK Nogosari on August 20, 2025, involving 85 children aged 5–6 years. The methods used included health education, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and pre-test and post-test evaluations. The results showed a significant improvement, where children’s understanding of PHBS increased from 44.7% to 84.7%, while their skills in practicing the six steps of handwashing improved from 30.6% to 71.8%. Interactive education through audio-visual media, posters, songs, and hands-on practice proved effective in enhancing children’s knowledge and skills in PHBS. Therefore, early habituation of PHBS in schools plays an important role in instilling sustainable healthy behaviors into adulthood.
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