Fostering Healthy Habits in Children Through Hygiene Awareness

Jakarta, 31 May—Worsening social inequality has left many communities vulnerable, particularly children living in environments with poor hygiene due to restricted access to clean water and air, which affects children’s health and development. Recognizing this pressing issue, Vian Martinez, our international student from the Philippines studying Business Information Systems at BINUS International, partnered with Yayasan Tunas Bangsa in Bali to organize a hygiene awareness session aimed at fostering healthy habits among children about the importance of hygiene in daily life. 

The session began with a short video and microscope demonstration on how germs move and spread, led by Alama Alviana, the workshop facilitator. The 25 children were introduced to practical hygiene practices, including proper handwashing, effective toothbrushing, and basic germ prevention. Interactive games and visual demonstrations helped children absorb the material in a fun and engaging way. 

(Photo Editor: Mufti Warits)

“The children were shocked to see how germs could transfer from surface to surface. It made the learning real,” Alma explained. 

To encourage the children to apply what they had learned, each participant received a personal hygiene kit containing essentials such as soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer. These hygiene items were given to help them build daily habits and promote consistent personal care at home. 

Seeing the children’s enthusiasm and the overwhelmingly positive response to the session. 

(Photo Editor: Mufti Warits)

“Privilege plays a role in providing basic necessities. Even though we provided hygiene kits for this training, it might not be a lasting solution for everyone. But we believe that acknowledging this imbalance is the first step toward driving change,” shared Vian, reflecting on the deeper challenges many families face. 

While access to hygiene essentials may remain limited for some, the workshop aimed to plant seeds of awareness and empowerment. Therefore, these small steps like showing how to brush properly or wash hands effectively can lead to healthier communities. 

(Words by: Mita Adhisti/Editor: Hamzah Ramadhan)