Glitter Handshake

Taking care of yourself helps us take care of other people. One of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of bacteria is washing your hands.

Goal

To be aware of how easy it is to spread things like bacteria, viruses, and diseases, and become more knowledgeable about preventative measures

Resources

Fine glitter
Lotion
Activity Instruction Sheet (optional) click to download

Instructions

Mix some lotion and glitter together
Give some of this mixture to one participant
Have this participant shake hands with someone else
Only if you have the glitter can you shake hands with others
Stop once everybody has glitter on their hands
Compare the amount of glitter on everybody’s hands

Discussion

Imagine the glitter is bacteria. How does this make you feel?
What is a way YOU can prevent “glitter” from spreading? Why is it important? Who does this benefit?
Think about the last time you were sick. How did you feel? Would you want others to feel the same way?
Come up with a song together to help participants remember to wash their hands and how long to wash their hands.

Extensions

If time and space permits, have kids wash their hands if there is a sink area, use hand wipes, or use hand sanitizer to help establish a routine of washing their hands.

Activity Source

Kristin Aoki & Annie Chu