Child Development Associate (CDA) Practice

Frequent hand washing is considered the most effective hygiene practice for preventing illness in children because it directly removes germs from the hands, which are a primary mode of transmission for pathogens. Children are particularly susceptible to infections due to their developing immune systems and the nature of their interactions with others, which can easily spread germs. Hand washing with soap and water not only eliminates dirt and visible debris but also effectively removes bacteria and viruses that may not be seen. This practice is critical, particularly after activities such as using the restroom, playing outside, and before eating. It helps minimize the risk of infections such as colds, flu, and gastrointestinal illnesses, which can spread rapidly in group settings such as schools and daycare facilities. While cleaning surfaces contributes to overall hygiene and using hand sanitizer can be beneficial in situations where soap and water are unavailable, neither has the same level of effectiveness as thorough hand washing. Wearing gloves can be appropriate in some contexts but does not replace the need for hand hygiene, as gloves can also become contaminated.