If you have not done so already, now is a good time to help your child develop healthy hand washing habits.

Proper hand washing can prevent the spread of many communicable diseases. Water alone, however, won't kill germs. Soap is needed too. Drying the hands with a disposable paper towel will help stop the spread of germs.

Here are some appropriate occasions for your child to practice hand washing:

• When she comes into the house after playing outdoors.
• After using the toilet.
• After petting an animal.
• Before eating food.

Good habits learned early can last a lifetime. So, help your child develop the good habit of washing her hands.

Courtesy Growing Child, www.growingchild.com; Dennis Dunn, Publisher, Growing Child, P.O. Box 620, Lafayette IN 47902; 800-927-7289; Dennis@GrowingChild.com