Learning Areas: Science, Health
Grades: 2–6
Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Students will simulate how germs spread through touch and explore the efficacy of handwashing and sanitizing for reducing germ transmission. This fun, hands-on activity encourages healthy habits and awareness of hygiene in everyday classroom interactions.
Materials
- Glitter or Glo Germ™ lotion/powder (or any UV-reactive powder)
- Germ-X Hand Sanitizer (minimum 60% alcohol)
- Access to soap and water
- Paper towels
- UV flashlight (for use with Glo Germ)
- Chart paper or whiteboard for group discussion
Instructions
- Setup (5 minutes):
- Select 1–2 students to receive a small amount of glitter or Glo Germ on their hands. Do not explain the purpose yet.
- Have the class mingle: high fives, exchanging papers, or sharing objects.
- Reveal (5 minutes):
- Pause the mingling and ask students to examine their hands.
- If using Glo Germ, dim the lights and use the UV flashlight to reveal glowing “germs.”
- Discussion (5 minutes):
- Ask students how the “germs” got on their hands.
- Facilitate a conversation about how germs can spread through casual contact.
- Clean-Up Test (10 minutes):
- Split the class into two groups:
- Group A: washes hands with soap and water
- Group B: uses hand sanitizer
- Compare hand cleanliness (visually or under UV light).
- Reflection (5–10 minutes):
- Which method worked better?
- When is it better to use sanitizer vs. handwashing?
- How do both methods help us stay healthy at school and home?
Learn More
- CDC Handwashing Guidelines
- Glo Germ Educational Resources
- Explore how germs spread with online science simulations or hygiene-focused curriculum tools.
