"Hand Washing with Glitter Germs”
Grade Level: K-2
Objectives:
HE.K.1.1 The student will identify proper personal hygiene skills (e.g.,
brushing teeth and hand washing).
HE.1.1.2 The student will verbally list ways to keep germs out of one’s
body.
Performance Descriptors:
Kindergarten students performing at the mastery level will identify proper personal
hygiene skills . . .
First grade students performing at the mastery level will verbally list ways to keep germs
out of one’s body . . .
Second grade students performing at the mastery level will describe how immunizations
and medicines help fight disease.
Objectives of the Lesson:
1. The students will have a concrete example as to why they should wash
their hands with soap and warm water.
2. The student will understand that germs are smaller than the eye can
see.
Materials Needed:
Glitter
Paper towels
Hand lotion
Bucket or pan (to catch the glitter)
A sink with warm running water
Soap
Introduction:
Hand washing is a simple habit that can help keep you healthy. Learn about the
benefits of good hand hygiene, as well as when to wash your hands and how to
clean them properly.
Learning Plan:
1. Before conducting this activity, be sure to find out if any students
have allergies to hand lotion. (may need to check with school nurse)
 Ask: What is a germ? (Germs are tiny creatures, or living things, that can
cause disease. When they get in our bodies, we won’t know it until we get
sick.)
 How big is a germ? (Germs are so small and sneaky that they creep into
our bodies without being noticed. In fact, germs are so tiny that you need to
use a microscope to see them.)
 Why is it important to wash our hands? (Washing your hands well and
often is the best way to remove germs. Wash your hands every time you
cough or sneeze, before and after you prepare foods or use the bathroom,
after you handle money, and after you visit a sick relative or friend.)
 Discuss each question.
2. Put a small amount of hand lotion in each student's hands. Have them
rub the lotion all over their hands. Sprinkle glitter on their hands over
a pan to catch the excess.
3. Organize students in three groups or involve all students in the
experiment.
 Instruct group one to try and wipe the glitter off of their hands with
a dry paper towel.
 Instruct group two to try and get the glitter off of their hands with
plain, cold water.
 Instruct group three to use warm water and soap to remove the
glitter.
4. Ask students which method best removes the glitter?
5. Instruct all students to wash their hands in warm, soapy water.
6. Students will learn that germs, like glitter, only come off with warm,
soapy water.
7. Flu germs can be washed off the hands and prevent illnesses, such as
the flu.
Other Sources: