In this thesis, I examined the hygiene habits of preschool children of Roma ethnicity, with a particular focus on habits related to handwashing. The study investigated how an implemented educational activity influenced the hygienic condition of children within a group.
The theoretical part addressed the concept of hygiene and presented the characteristics of the Roma community. It also outlined the fundamentals of personal hygiene and environmental hygiene.
In the empirical part, I conducted observations of handwashing practices and the hygiene of the indoor environment (playroom), as well as interviews with professional staff who are in daily contact with the children. The children were observed one day prior to the implementation of the activity, the activity was carried out the following day, and observations were repeated the day after. The aim of the activity was to encourage children to wash all parts of their hands more thoroughly, to wash their hands for a longer duration—at least 20 seconds—and to use soap during handwashing. The duration of handwashing was measured, and handwashing techniques and soap use were monitored. Observations took place before and after meals, after using the toilet, after sneezing and coughing, and after outdoor activities.
An activity was carried out in which dirt on the children’s hands was observed using a USB microscope. Based on the post-activity observations, it was found that children washed their hands for a longer time and more thoroughly. Even before the activity, children enjoyed using soap; however, its use often quickly turned into play. After the activity, it was observed that children used soap primarily to remove dirt, although among younger children less attention to proper handwashing technique was still noticeable.
From the interviews with preschool teachers, it was established that professional staff regularly remind and encourage children to wash their hands. The staff frequently demonstrate the correct handwashing technique and remind children of the handwashing procedure illustrated in a poster displayed above the sink.
Based on the presented findings, it can be concluded that this thesis makes an important contribution to understanding the hygiene habits of preschool children of Roma ethnicity, particularly in the area of handwashing. The results confirm that a targeted, even if time-limited, educational activity has a positive effect on improving both the duration and technique of handwashing. At the same time, the study highlights specific challenges faced by professional staff in their everyday pedagogical work in kindergartens and emphasizes the importance of a systematic and adapted approach to developing hygiene habits. The findings therefore provide an important basis for further research and for the development of more effective pedagogical practices in the field of health education in early childhood.
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