Handwashing reduces the spread of illness

Fall and winter bring a host of illnesses, from colds and flu to more serious infections. Because bacteria and viruses travel easily from person to person, it is important to teach children good hygiene early.

Washing hands properly and frequently will help reduce your child's exposure to illnesses. To reduce the risk of infection, teach your child to:

1. Wet hands with warm water to kill germs.
2. Place a small amount of soap in palm of hand. (Turn off the faucet to save water.)
3. Rub hands together quickly, rubbing soap between fingers, on backs of hands and lightly scratching fingernails on palms of hands. Rub for at least 10 seconds.
4. Turn on warm water. Rinse hands well, being sure to scrub while rinsing. Point fingers down in sink. This will rinse germs off hands.
5. Dry hands, making sure they are completely dry.

In public restrooms, when possible, turn off the water and open the door with the paper towel in hand. This will help prevent picking up more germs.

It is important that your child wash his or her hands before eating and after going to the bathroom. Pay attention to how your child washes and praise good technique. Set a good example by washing your own hands well.