Here are some simple steps child care providers can teach children to follow to make sure their hands are washed properly:

• Use soap and warm running water.
• Wash wrists, palms, back of hands, fingers, and fingernails.
• Wash for at least 15 seconds. Sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," the Alphabet Song, or "Happy Birthday" at least twice as you wash to make sure you're washing for a full 15 seconds.
• Dry hands with a paper towel.
• Use the paper towel to turn off the faucet, then throw the towel away.

For more information and ideas, check out the eXtension Alliance for Better Child Care article on handwashing in child care.

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