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Hand-washing Battles
The Importance of Getting the Reluctant Toddler to Lather Up
By Jacqueline Bodnar
Even children as young as toddlers can learn to cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze. The most effective way to do this is by using a tissue and throwing it away when finished. If no tissue is handy, they should still cover their mouth and then wash their hands. Many schools today teach children to cough into the bend of their elbow or their sleeve if no tissue is available, which is also recommended by the National Institutes of Heath.
Coughing or sneezing into the bend of the elbow traps germs, whereas using a hand spreads germs as soon as children touch something, if they haven't immediately washed their hands. Using a hand to cover the mouth should be a last resort, only used if you can readily wash your hands afterward.
Virginia State University reports that although failre to properly wash hands is a major cause of infectious diseases, studies indicate that 33 percent of people do not wash their hands after using the restroom. The next time you are in a public restroom, take notice of how many people properly wash their hands. The percentage is even more dismal in budget-strapped schools, as many don't stock the students' restrooms with the proper supplies needed to wash hands (e.g., soap, paper towels or an air dryer). When access to water and soap are not an option, try to use an alcohol-based hand gel or wipe to clean your hands.
