Contact Us	What's New	Best Practices & Accreditation	Training & Consulting	Licensing Startup	Resources	The Business of Child Care	Health and Safety

Safe Handwashing 

---

Did You Know?

According to Donna Rafanell, MEd, "The single most effective means of preventing the spread of germs is handwashing "(American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthy Child Care America, Winter 2001). All child care providers must emphasize the criticalness of thorough handwashing by both children and staff. Antibacterial soaps are not necessary to prevent the spread of germs. In fact, antibacterial soaps may in fact be creating mutant, even harmful strains of germs that were once fairly benign. Warm water, soap, and disposable paper towels are effective at eliminating infectious disease germs on hands.

Children and staff at child care centers should wash their hands: Before and after preparing and serving food; Before and after changing a diaper, using the toilet, or assisting a child using the toilet; After assisting an injured child, particularly if blood or body fluids were present (even if the staff was wearing gloves); After using a tissue to blow their nose or cough; After touching or petting an animal at the Center; After using art materials; And after outdoor play.