The presentation covered several essential health topics, including proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, effective handwashing techniques, daily dental care, the importance of regular showering and how to build a healthy plate.

The goal of the presentation was to help younger students understand how simple habits can prevent illness and promote overall well-being.

Each section of the presentation was accompanied by handmade posters to demonstrate the tasks to introduce key health concepts in a fun and age-appropriate way.

Opening the presentation, Carnahan and Karstetter demonstrated how far germs can travel from coughing and sneezing using a tape measure for the kids.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Children line up at the sink to test their handwashing skills.

Students were shown the importance of covering their face and how to cover coughs and sneezes using tissues or the inside of their elbow to reduce the spread of germs. Each student was encouraged to practice these techniques themselves, reinforcing the lesson through participation.

The trio additionally addressed personal cleanliness by talking about the importance of regular showering. They explained how staying clean helps prevent body odor, skin issues and the spread of bacteria.

Handwashing was another major focus, including a hands-on activity for the children. Before giving step-by-step demonstrations, the SkillsUSA team questioned the children on how long they should wash their hands.

Responses varied from 20 seconds to ten minutes as the kids excitedly participated.

The children were shown how to thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water, emphasizing the importance of scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Children take part in an interactive handwashing activity, showing how germs can stick to their hands and why it’s important to wash their hands.

One of the highlights of the visit was a hands-on activity using a black light to demonstrate the presence of germs on hands. Each student was given a drop of gel that was rubbed into their hands and highlighted before washing.

After each student was able to see their hands, they lined up at the sinks to see who was able to wash their hands the best.

When the children returned to their seats, many of them saw their hands still glowing, missing the backs of their hands, nails and more.

The glowing visuals helped students see firsthand why thorough handwashing is so important.

Dental hygiene was also highlighted, with the students explaining how and why to brush teeth properly. They discussed the benefits of brushing twice a day and showed correct brushing motions to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Children take part in an interactive handwashing activity, showing how germs can stick to their hands and why it’s important to wash their hands.

In addition, the CMHS students led an interactive tooth-brushing activity, giving the children a chance to practice proper brushing techniques in a fun and memorable way.

The kids were given glitter-filled gel packs to use some of the new techniques that were shown to clear their teeth, showing off a bright white smile.

In addition to hygiene, the presentation also focused on nutrition and how to build a healthy, balanced plate.

Using simple visuals and examples, SkillsUSA members explained how meals should include a variety of food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy.

They also emphasized portion balance, encouraging students to fill half their plate with fruits and vegetables, while the other half includes whole grains and lean proteins.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Using homemade glitter and gel packs, the children practiced brushing techniques to clear the glitter from their teeth.

Their last activity with the students included their own healthy plate where the children were able to draw their favorite foods in each section.

Teachers and students at Acorn School thanked the SkillsUSA students for their interactive approach. The presentation not only educated students but also encouraged them to take responsibility for their own health habits.

The visit served as a valuable reminder that small daily actions can make a big difference in staying healthy.

The presentation not only reinforced essential hygiene habits for the children but also gave the high school students valuable experience in health education and community outreach.

Through initiatives like this, CMHS SkillsUSA program continues to empower students to apply their knowledge in meaningful, real-world settings — while helping younger generations develop lifelong healthy habits.

LAURA TARANTELLA/THE EXPRESS Children share their healthy plates and favorite foods.

At the end of the presentation, Carnahan, Karstetter and Dilley donated tissues and cleaning wipes for the classroom for students to continue building healthy habits.