Hand washing is important because it reduces the spread of germs from one person to the next. By washing our hands, we prevent germs from getting into our bodies as well as passing them onto other people. Because germs are everywhere it is important that we wash our hands so we don't ingest them when we eat or pass them on to someone else. Have your students show you the correct way to wash their hands. Make sure they count out loud for 15 seconds.
Communicable diseases are diseases that are able to be passed on from one person to the next.
Non communicable diseases are those that cannot be passed from one person to the next, they are not contagious. Have students write out a personal health goal journal for preventing illness. Each week, have them check their goals to see if they followed them. Some of these goals might include washing their hands after using the rest room and before eating, making sure they have soap and hand towels at home and in school rest rooms, and making sure they put food in the fridge after taking it out. Click here for activities to use with this lesson.