Habit formation can be beneficial or detrimental for health and well-being, depending on the nature of the behavior. Some habits, such as brushing teeth or exercising regularly, can promote health and prevent disease. Other habits, such as smoking or binge eating, can harm health and increase disease risk.
Therefore, habit formation can be used as a behavior change strategy to either create new healthy habits or replace existing unhealthy habits with healthier alternatives.
“Healthy and hygienic habits are essential for school going kids to stay clean, healthy and safe from germs and illnesses.”
By practising good personal hygiene at school, children can create a better environment to study, learn and realize their potential. They can also reinforce positive life-long behaviours in their homes and communities. However, many children go to school every day in unsafe learning environments, with no drinking water, no proper toilets, and no soap for washing their hands. Therefore, it is important for parents and teachers to teach children about the importance of hygiene in schools and how to follow some simple tips.
One of the main benefits of good hygiene is that it helps prevent the spread of infections in schools. Thorough hand washing is the single most effective way to do this. Children should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after eating food, after using the toilet, coughing or sneezing, playing in the school ground, etc. Washing hands with soap and water should become a daily habit with children.
Another benefit of good hygiene is that it helps avoid spreading cold and flu viruses. Children should cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing to stop germs from becoming airborne. They should also throw away the used tissues in a bin and wash their hands afterwards. If they do not have a tissue, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow, not their hands.
A third benefit of good hygiene is that it supports a healthy diet and hydration. Children should eat nutritious food that boosts their immunity and helps them fight off infections. They should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from their body. Water also helps improve brain function and concentration. Children should avoid sharing food or drinks with others to prevent cross-contamination.
A fourth benefit of good hygiene is that it enhances self-esteem and confidence. Children who have good personal hygiene feel good about themselves and are more likely to participate in class activities and socialize with others. They also have a positive impact on their peers and teachers who appreciate their cleanliness and manners.
Conclusion
To sum up, healthy and hygienic habits are vital for school going kids to enjoy better health, learning and well-being. Parents and teachers should educate children about the importance of hygiene in schools and encourage them to follow some simple tips such as washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, eating healthy food, drinking water, etc. By doing so, they can help children develop lifelong habits that will benefit them and their communities.
References:
11 facts about water, sanitation and hygiene in schools | UNICEF1
Importance of Hygiene in Schools, How to Teach Personal Hygiene Habits to Students | ParentCircle2
Healthy Hygiene Habits: Hygiene in Schools | Dettol India3
How parents can teach personal hygiene habits to kids4
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