They kiss each other, share drinks and food and, when bored, have even been known to chew on their shoes. Hand washing is not usually a voluntary activity with our little darlings and when they do wash their hands, they often do a poor job. Wiping one s nose on one s clothes is socially acceptable in the 0 to 5 age group. Old silver sleeves is a nickname that could easily apply to many. Now, if all of this hasn t grossed you out enough, try thinking about how much they eat with their grimy little fingers, as opposed to the familiar spoon or fork.
Children touch toilet seats, flush handles and railings.
They rest their mouths on chair backs in public places. They schmooch pets, play with night crawlers and make friends with ladybugs and toads, when they happen by. Doctors tell mothers that childhood illnesses generally offer some immunity to children. But, it s good to remember that even childhood illnesses can have complications. Avoiding them is the best defense.