Grade 3 Hygiene And Nutrition Health Practices – Uses of improvised materials Notes
Hygiene and Nutrition — Uses of Improvised Materials
These are easy, safe ways people in Kenya can use things at home or in the village to keep clean and eat well. Always ask a grown-up or health worker if you are not sure.
1. Clean hands — when there is no sink
- Tippy-tap: Make a simple handwash station from a small jerrycan or plastic bottle tied to a stick. Put a small hole so water pours slowly when you press a stick with your foot.
- Soap savings: Use small soap pieces in a soap bag (old net or cloth) so soap lasts longer.
- If no soap: Wash with clean water and rub your hands well. In some places adults use clean ash as a last choice — check with a grown-up or nurse first.
2. Safe water — simple ways
- Store safely: Keep water in a clean jerrycan or covered container so flies cannot touch it.
- Filter and boil: If water is dirty, pour through a clean cloth (or sand/charcoal filter made by adults) then boil before drinking. Always let an adult do the boiling.
- Cool drinking: Clay pots (chungu/vibuyu) can keep water cool — cover the top to keep it clean.
3. Keeping food safe and healthy
- Cover food: Use a clean cloth, plate cover, or basket lid (like a kiondo with a lid) to stop flies and dust.
- Use banana leaves: In some areas, banana leaves are used to serve food. Always clean the leaf first.
- Measure portions: Use a small cup (kikombe) to measure food: one fist = one cup for porridge or ugali for young children.
4. Cleaning teeth and mouth
- Chew sticks (mswaki): Some families use clean chew sticks from certain trees to clean teeth. Always follow adult rules and a health worker’s advice.
- Toothbrush care: If you share a toothbrush, be careful — keep brushes dry and clean and do not share with others.
5. Reusable items for school and home
- Cloth napkins and pads: Clean cloths can be used for wiping hands, wrapping food, or for older girls as reusable pads — these must be washed well and dried in the sun. Ask a grown-up how to make and wash them.
- Soap saver bags: Old nets or small cloth bags hold soap pieces and help children lather better.
6. Simple tips for safety and good nutrition
- Always keep improvised items clean — wash and dry in the sun when you can.
- Use locally available healthy foods: vegetables, fruits, beans, milk, and fish or meat sometimes — a balanced plate helps you grow strong.
- If you are unsure, ask a teacher, parent, or health worker. Some homemade things need adult help (boiling water, sewing pads, building a tippy-tap).
Quick activity for class or at home:
- With an adult, try making a tippy-tap from a small jerrycan and test washing your hands for 20 seconds.
- Count how many different healthy foods are in one meal and try to add one green vegetable next time.
Remember: improvised items are helpful but the best ways are to keep things clean, boil or treat water, and ask a grown-up when needed.