In Sickness & Health
Handwashing Works

Why does handwashing work to prevent disease? People, not objects, are the number one carriers of germs.

Why are children more susceptible to germs and disease than adults? Children are exposed to and transfer more germs because they have not established good hygiene routines, and because they put their hands and objects in their mouths.

List three times when children should wash their hands? When they first arrive; before eating or food activities; after eating; after outside play; before and after playing with art/sensory materials; after toileting/diapering; after sneezing/blowing the nose; after playing with pets/animals; before/after sand/water play.

To prevent burns, tap water should be less than what temperature? Water temperature should be less than 120 degrees F.

Are antibacterial soaps necessary? Antibacterial soaps can help kill some germs, but using any soap and running water, and rubbing the hands thoroughly will remove most germs.

Medicine Chest
Impetigo

Rashes and skin irritations may be caused by what? Allergic reactions, diseases such as chicken pox or measles, irritation, or skin infection.

What causes impetigo? Impetigo is caused when bacteria (usually strep or staph) enter the skin, usually through a break in the skin from an insect bite, a cut or scrape, or a chronic runny nose.

What is the treatment for impetigo? Treatment usually consists of cleaning the area gently, removing the scabs with soap and water, and using antibiotics.

Can impetigo spread, or is it contagious? Yes. It is very contagious. The bacteria in the open sore can be spread when the child scratches the area. Bacteria get under the fingernails, and when the child scratches another place on his skin, the impetigo can be reintroduced into the body. Also, the bacteria can be transferred to other children by hands or on objects.

Should caregivers be involved in treatment of impetigo? Because the bacteria are so easily spread, it may not be advisable for caregivers to change bandages or apply ointment. This may be best left to the parents and at the child's home.

Safety First
Preparing for Emergencies: Information and Training

How can you prepare for an emergency? Assure that all staff are trained; conduct regular practices; and have necessary information readily available and accessible.

What types of information should you have available on each child? Contact names and telephone numbers; names and telephone numbers of medical providers; copies of insurance or Medicaid cards; parent/guardian authorization for emergency care; information on allergies or chronic health conditions.

What types of information should be posted by the telephone or in each childcare nursery or classroom? Location of the nearest phone; emergency telephone numbers; address of the program and driving directions for emergency personnel; location of fire extinguishers; location of the first aid kit; basic first aid information.

Health & You
Start the Day with Breakfast

Food served for breakfast should provide how much of the day's energy? One-half of the day's energy.

What government agency provides technical assistance and funds for the meals and snacks served to children in qualified childcare programs? The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

How much milk should be served to preschool age children for breakfast? Six ounces of milk for breakfast.

What do nutrients provide for children? Carbohydrates give young children quick energy. Protein builds muscles. Fat helps build energy stores that support their rapid growth and development.

What is the CACFP fruit requirement for breakfast? One-half fruit or 100 percent fruit juice for preschool age children.

Nutrition Action
Remember to eat Breakfast!

Is breakfast important for adults? Breakfast helps you start the day right. "Breaking the fast" can improve your attention span, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Does it matter what adults eat for breakfast? There are no required "breakfast foods." The body does not care what type of food as long as the food contains the basic nutrients.