Good hand washing is your first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses - and not just the common cold. More serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea can be stopped with the simple act of washing your hands.

How to Wash Your Hands Correctly-Here are some simple steps for scrubbing those germs away. Demonstrate this routine to your child - or better yet, wash your hands together with your child several times a day so he or she learns how important this good habit is.

• Wash your hands in warm water. Make sure the water isn't too hot for little hands.
• Use soap and lather up for about 10 to 15 seconds (antibacterial soap isn't necessary - any soap will do). Make sure you get in between the fingers and under the nails where uninvited germs like to hang out. And don't forget the wrists!
• Rinse and dry well with a clean towel.

• before eating and cooking
  
• after using the bathroom
  
• after cleaning around the house
  
• after touching animals, including family pets
  
• after visiting or taking care of any sick friends or relatives
  
• after blowing one's nose, coughing, or sneezing
  
• after being outside (playing, gardening, walking the dog, etc.)

Don't underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink with your child could save you trips to the doctor's office.
www.kidshealth.org