PLAYFUL HEALTH EDUCATION: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF TEACHING STRATEGIES FOR HYGIENE AND FIRST AID FOR CHILDREN

Abstract

Health education in childhood, particularly through playful approaches, has gained recognition as an effective strategy for promoting healthy habits and preventing health issues. The objective was to analyze the available scientific evidence on the effectiveness of playful strategies in teaching basic hygiene and first aid to children. The methodology was based on an integrative literature review, including articles published between 2020 and 2025. Twenty-six studies were analyzed, which consistently demonstrated the superiority of playful approaches over traditional methods in child health education. Playful approaches showed superior results compared to traditional ones, particularly in increased engagement (88% vs. 45%), knowledge acquisition (75% vs. 30%), and correct practical execution (68% vs. 25%). Specific methodologies, such as educational games (80%), simulations with paint (90%), and songs (85%), had a greater impact, especially when conducted by trained facilitators, whose involvement increased the effectiveness of the interventions by 55%. Playful strategies constitute powerful tools for child health education, promoting greater engagement, better knowledge retention, and the development of essential practical skills.