10/05/2025
✨ Caring for Ourselves the Montessori Way: Let's Wash Our Hands! ✨
At Mutiara Islamic Montessori Seri Iskandar, we believe in empowering our little ones with practical life skills through the Montessori approach. One of the most important skills we focus on is Care of Self, which helps children become independent and responsible individuals.
Today, we want to highlight a crucial aspect of Care of Self: handwashing. In our Montessori classroom, handwashing is not just a routine; it's a carefully presented activity that fosters independence, coordination, and awareness of hygiene.
Why is handwashing so important, especially now?
Our community has seen an increase in cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). HFMD is a contagious illness that spreads easily through close contact, especially through unwashed hands. Young children are particularly susceptible.
At Mutiara Islamic Montessori Iskandar, we have four sinks specially fitted at children's height.
This thoughtful design offers several advantages;
▪︎Promotes Independence: Children can comfortably reach the water and soap without needing assistance, fostering their self-reliance and confidence.
▪︎Encourages Proper Posture: The appropriately sized sinks allow children to wash their hands without straining or stretching awkwardly, making the process more comfortable and effective.
▪︎Creates a Sense of Ownership: When the environment is designed with them in mind, children feel a greater sense of belonging and are more likely to engage positively with routines like handwashing.
By learning and practicing thorough handwashing using the Montessori method, in an environment that supports their independence, our children gain a powerful tool in preventing the spread of germs, including the viruses that cause HFMD. Regular and correct handwashing significantly reduces the risk of infection for themselves and others in our community.
What can you do at home?
>>Create a child-friendly handwashing station: Use a small stool so your child can reach the sink comfortably. Provide mild soap and a soft towel.
>>Model good handwashing habits: Let your child see you washing your hands properly and explain why it's important.
>>Make it a routine: Encourage handwashing at key times: before meals, after using the toilet, after playing outdoors, and after coughing or sneezing.
>>Talk about germs in a simple way: Explain that washing hands helps get rid of tiny "bugs" that can make us sick.
Let's work together to keep our children healthy and safe! By instilling good handwashing habits early on, we empower them with a lifelong skill that protects their well-being and our community.
