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In day care centers and private homes, caregivers play an important role in preventing the spread of germs. Young children touch everything, frequently put their hands in their mouths, and are still learning healthy hygiene habits. is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect children, caregivers, and families.

Caregivers should wash their hands:

• When arriving for work
• Before preparing food, serving meals, or feeding a child
• Before and after giving medication
• After changing a diaper or helping with toileting
• After wiping a nose or handling bodily fluids
• After outdoor play
• After handling pets, pet supplies, or garbage
• Before caring for an infant or touching bottles and pacifiers
• Whenever hands are visibly dirty

Proper handwashing means using soap and running water and scrubbing all surfaces of the hands—including between the fingers and around the nails—for at least 20 seconds. Hands should then be rinsed and dried thoroughly. Hand sanitizer can be helpful when soap and water are unavailable, but it should not replace handwashing when hands are visibly dirty or after diapering and toileting.

Children learn by watching adults. When caregivers make handwashing part of the daily routine, children begin to understand that clean hands are an important part of staying healthy. Just what we tell the kids helps! Singing a short song, using a visual reminder near the sink, or washing hands together can make the process more engaging.

Whether care takes place in a classroom or a family’s home, should never feel optional. A few extra moments at the sink can reduce illness, protect vulnerable children, and create a safer environment for everyone.