Hand washing is the first line of defense against germs. Children learn to explore their world through their hands and their mouths. Unfortunately, more often than not these two meet. Everything that a child touches goes into his mouth. This is the easiest way for germs to spread. By washing the children’s hands on a regular basis, germs can be killed fairly quickly. Kids will learn from a good example. Therefore, it is up to the childcare provider to set the example by demonstrating good hand washing techniques on a regular basis. Hands should be washed upon arrival at the daycare center.

Although the toys and equipment should have been sanitized the night before, the childcare provider is inevitably bringing in new germs from the outside. It is a good idea to start the day fresh. During the day, both children and childcare providers should wash their hands after any diaper change or bathroom visit, before any meals, after coughing or sneezing, and after blowing their nose. Obviously hands should be washed immediately if they come into contact with anything messy or potentially a biohazard, such as feces. It is a good idea to keep an eye on the group because some children will inevitably pick their nose. This should be greatly discouraged and their hands should be washed immediately.

Another bad habit that should be discouraged is nail biting. This increases the open body surface for germs to enter, and the hand in the mouth is an easy way for germs to spread. Underneath the fingernail is a hotbed of germs. Many times even with frequent hand washing, germs remain here. This is because young children do not yet understand how to properly wash their hands on their own.

Also, in a childcare setting, there is rarely a nail brush readily available. Even the longest hand washing session can miss germs underneath the nail. Thumb sucking and the general habit of putting a hand into a mouth to soothe should also be discouraged. Although children will inevitably get sick, the spreading of germs can be prevented through simple hand washing. Adults need to set the example for children. This elementary act of hygiene can help keep children and childcare workers healthy.