Context:
Recognizing the role of handwashing with soap in preventing childhood illnesses and improving overall health outcomes is crucial to foster healthy families and communities. However, changing long-established behaviours can be challenging, and simply providing information may not be enough to drive sustained behaviour change. As social beings, humans often seek validation and recognition from their communities. Social commitment fosters a sense of community support and collective responsibility. Hence, leveraging this nudge, and bringing parents together to practice HWWS and publicly committing to it, can make them feel part of a shared effort to protect their children’s health. This creates a feeling of belonging and reinforces the idea that HWWS is a collective responsibility that everyone should uphold.

Purpose:
Building on this, the ‘Handwashing Promise Chart’ was developed as a powerful behaviour change communication tool. The HWWS Promise Chart celebrates and recognizes mothers who have embraced the practice of handwashing with soap on key occasions. Through this interactive exercise, mothers who regularly engage in handwashing can leave a hand imprint and mention their child’s name on the chart. The chart not only serves as a visual representation of their commitment but also fosters a sense of community aspiration as mothers can witness the growing number of fellow mothers adopting this vital habit. It becomes a source of motivation, inspiring mothers to be acknowledged as committed parents within the community. By participating and proudly leaving their mark on the chart, they symbolize their dedication to promoting hygiene practices and contribute to building a stronger foundation for a healthier future for their children.

Target Groups:
Mothers of 0-2-year-old children

Key Messages:
Encourage social validation to inspire and motivate mothers in adopting the practice of handwashing on all key occasions.

Duration:
2 minutes

Required Resources:
The Handwashing Promise Chart, Colored solution/water (vermilion or turmeric water) and a Pen

How to Use:
Ask mothers to leave their handprints and mention their child’s name to publicly commit to practising handwashing with soap on key occasions.
Mount the chart on a wall in the Anganwadi Center (or any other community gathering place).