Hand Washing

This week is National Hand Washing Awareness Week.

We have certainly been very aware of hand washing in our efforts to prevent the spread of H1N1 flu this year. Hand washing is a simple but effective way to prevent the spread of flu and many other types of illness.

The most effective way to wash hands is to use soap and water. Antibacterial soap is not necessary and overuse of it may contribute to antibiotic resistant bacteria. To wash hands, wet hands and then apply soap. Rub hands together for 10-20 seconds, making sure to get all surfaces of the hand. Then rinse with water and dry using a paper towel. Have children sing the Happy Birthday song, Row Your Boat, or another favorite song while they are washing to help them wash for long enough.

Waterless hand sanitizers can also be used. Place a small amount on the hand and rub until it has all evaporated. Use enough that hands stay wet for 10-15 seconds. Very young children should not use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Older children should be carefully supervised when using them to ensure they do not ingest any.

The children here are all on their way to becoming expert hand washers. Sometimes they need our reminders and our help, but when I have gone to classrooms to talk about hand washing, I have consistently been impressed by how much children can tell me about hand washing. They know when to wash, how to wash, and why it is so important. And in going around to classrooms each day, I see plenty of examples of children and teachers putting that knowledge into practice! It’s great to see children, teachers, and parents all working together to help keep ourselves and each other healthy.