Author: Marlene Nqumse

Media Release: GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners Delivered a Fun Lesson with a Serious Message

25 August 2025

On Tuesday, 19 August 2025, the children of Klein Wonderwerkies Kleuterskool  in Oudtshoorn enjoyed an interactive and educational visit from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP).  During the visit, the EHPs facilitated a fun, hands-on training session about proper handwashing techniques. The initiative aimed to raise hygiene awareness and help prevent the spread of germs among young learners.

A Fun Lesson with a Serious Message

The training, led by the EHPs transformed a basic health lesson into an exciting learning experience. Through the use of colourful visuals, catchy songs, and interactive activities, the visitors captured the children’s attention while emphasising the importance of clean hands.  The little ones learned not only how to wash their hands properly, but also why it matters, especially before eating, after using the toilet, or coming in from outside.

“We know how important hand hygiene is, especially in early childhood development settings like Klein Wonderwerkies,” said EHP Anelisa Fuzani. “By making it fun and memorable, we are not only teaching them the correct way to wash their hands, but also helping them develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.”

Children were shown the five key steps of effective handwashing:

1. Wet your hands with clean water.
2. Lather with soap, don’t forget between the fingers!
3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds (they sang “wash your hands” song twice).
4. Rinse well under running water.
5. Dry hands using a clean towel.

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