Learning Areas: Science, Health
Grades: 2–6
Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Did you know that Germ-X® Hand Sanitizers kill 99.99% of many common harmful germs and bacteria? This fun, hands-on activity encourages healthy habits and awareness of hygiene in everyday classroom interactions. Students will simulate how germs spread through touch and explore the efficacy of handwashing and sanitizing for reducing germ transmission.
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.
- You can purchase Germ-X® hand sanitizers at Walmart, either in store or online, as well as on Amazon. Check out their newest item: Germ-X Hydrating Hand Sanitizer infused with Hyaluronic Acid.
