Page 61 - Choosing a Child Care Center

CHOOSING A CHILD CARE CENTER

germs, but by removing them, it lowers their num-
bers and the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting,
on the other hand, actually kills germs that are on
surfaces or objects by using chemicals to kill them.
This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces
or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface
after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spread-
ing infection.
Always ask what cleaning products are used
within the center to ensure that they are free from
harmful chemicals and so that allergic reactions on
the skin can be avoided.
It is essential for a center to demonstrate that
they are organized. Organization is not only essential
to providing a quality curriculum but also for main-
taining health and safety protocols to a high stand-
ard.
There should be clear sanitation rules for staff to
follow, such as washing hands after each diaper
change, thoroughly washing feeding utensils and
bottles, and washing toys with a sanitizing solution.
Now more than ever, it is important that healthy and
sanitary conditions exist everywhere in the center for
children of all ages. Any center that you are looking at
should have a daily cleaning and sanitation checklist
in place that they can walk you through if prompted
to.

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