Clean Hands Up! for National Handwashing Awareness Week

It’s that time of year when we’re seeing an increase in the amount of runny noses, coughing, and sneezing at home, at work, and in schools. Louisville Water will help combat those germs by boosting its Clean Hands Up! lessons as part of National Handwashing Awareness Week.

Louisville Water kicked off the week at Auburndale Elementary with eager kindergarteners, first graders, and second graders.

“This is one of our most popular programs. Louisville Water educators teach proper techniques throughout the year, but this week is a great opportunity to emphasize the importance of handwashing with visits to several classrooms in a matter of a few days,” said Community Relations Manager Channa Newman.

Getting children in the habit of washing their hands, especially the right way, can be challenging. Clean Hands Up! makes it fun for the kids. Ms. Aubrey’s kindergarten class first learned a little about the Ohio River and all the reasons we use water, but then it was time to bring out the “glow-in-the-dark germs”! The little ones soaked up the green lotion and lined up to wash their hands in the classroom sink. A blacklight inspection showed the kids how well they did or where they might need to scrub a little harder next time. The kids were quick to point out where they had specks of green left on their hands.

“Students love to practice what they learn, and then go home and teach their families how to be good ‘germ stoppers’!” Newman said.

Louisville Water will make the rounds at several other schools this week along with the South Central branch of Louisville Free Public Library and Harbor House of Louisville. Let us know if you’d like to schedule a Louisville Water lesson for your school, workplace, or community event in 2024!

Enjoy this classic video from Tapper who helped us raise awareness about handwashing during COVID.