Hygiene behaviour and sanitation are foundational to public health, especially for school-aged children in developing countries, where poor hygiene remains a major risk factor for numerous diseases. Good hygiene practices are among the most effective preventive measures against infectious illnesses. Yet, many schools continue to grapple with issues related to sanitation, contributing to outbreaks of gastrointestinal infections. The integration of safe practices with appropriate hygiene facilities becomes essential in reducing the risk of disease exposure.

Among key hygiene behaviours, proper hand washing, safe water handling, and effective use of latrines stand out. Hand washing with soap, in particular, plays a critical role in protecting children from illnesses like diarrhoea and respiratory infections. Evidence shows that such habits can reduce illness-related absences in elementary schools by up to 26%. Critical moments for hand hygiene include after using the toilet, cleaning a child, and before eating or preparing food. Alongside general hygiene, oral hygiene is often overlooked, yet equally vital. Oral diseases like dental caries are widespread, especially in low-income communities, and are directly linked to poor brushing habits and limited awareness about oral care tools. Studies in India and Bangladesh highlight that children often brush only once daily, use incorrect techniques, and lack exposure to dental hygiene essentials like floss or toothbrush replacement. Children’s hygiene behaviors are shaped by a variety of factors. Foremost among these is knowledge, children who understand the importance of hand washing and water safety are more likely to practice them. However, awareness alone doesn’t always translate into consistent habits. Training and education, particularly through structured programs or exposure to model schools, can bridge this gap and encourage lasting behaviour change. The presence of role models, parents, teachers, or hygiene club leaders also deeply influences children’s choices. Facilities and infrastructure play a major role too; functional handwashing stations, clean toilets, and hygiene supplies are necessary to support what children learn. Unfortunately, many schools still lack these basics, pushing children to avoid unsanitary toilets and increasing their risk for complications like constipation or urinary infections.

Understanding of hygiene and disease transmission begins surprisingly early around ages 4 to 5, when children start grasping the concept of germs. While teachers may use simple phrases like “Wash your hands or you’ll fall sick,” children can often conceptualize contamination in more sophisticated ways, associating dirt and germ transfer with illness. More than words, it is the consistency and conviction in adults’ actions that help reinforce the value of hygiene among children. In India, Sesame Workshop India (SWI), has been at the forefront of this effort. One of its flagship programs, Banega Swasth India (BSI), implemented in partnership with Reckitt, addresses the critical need for hygiene, sanitation, and health education among children. With a joyful and action-oriented approach, BSI empowers children across India with the knowledge and skills to build cleaner and healthier communities.

The BSI initiative aligns seamlessly with national goals such as the Swachh Bharat: Swachh Vidyalaya mission and the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. In its first year, the program conducted perception studies to understand how children view hygiene and sanitation in schools. Based on the insights, it introduced engaging educational tools, storybooks, 3D puzzles, and WASH-themed puppets like Neela Jadugar and KK Kitanu, that helped children learn through play. Through these layered, research-backed, and child-friendly interventions, Sesame Workshop India is empowering the next generation to grow up healthier, more informed, and equipped with the right habits to lead safe and dignified lives.