Indianapolis Recorder, Indianapolis, Marion County, 22 April 2005 — Page 26

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C SECTION FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2005

PARENTING TIPS FROM THE DESK OF JADA Why hand washing is so important From KidsHealth.org

A delicious mud pie, a good-luck rock, or a friendly frog are just a few of the presents children love to bring home to Mom and Dad. But did you know that behind these adorable gifts - and countless others - millions of germs could be lurking? Kids may not always listen when you tell them to wash their hands before eating, but it’s amessage worth repeating. Hand washing is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep your kids from getting sick. Germs - such as bacteria and viruses - can be transmitted several different ways, especially by touching dirty hands or changing dirty diapers. Other ways germs spread include: • Through contaminated water and food. • Through droplets released during a cough or a sneeze. • Through contaminated surfaces. • Through a sick person’s body fluids. If kids pick up germs from one of these sources, they can unknowingly become infected simply by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. And once they’re infected, it’s usuallyjust a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness. Good hand washing is your first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses - and not just the common cold. More serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea can be stopped with the simple act ofwashingyour hands.

How to wash your hands correctly Here are some simple steps for scrubbing those germs away. Demonstrate this routine to your child - or better yet, wash your hands together with your child several times a day so he or she learns how important this good habit is. (1) Wash your hands in warm water. Make sure the water isn’t too hot for little hands. (2) Use soap and lather up for about 10 to 15 seconds (antibacterial soap isn’t necessary - any soap will do). Make sure you get in between the fingers and under the nails where uninvited germs like to hang out. And don’t forget the wrists. (3) Rinse and dry well with a clean towel.

Race for the Cure Approximately 35,600 people concerned about finding a cure for cancer gathered on the IUPUI campus walking or running to raise money that will benefit breast cancer research at the Komen Indianapolis Race for the Cure Annual Race/Walk to Benefit Breast Cancer Research, Education, Screening and Treatment. Event planners say it is likely they will reach the $1.5 million goal set before the race.

Members of the Indianapolis Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. prepare to begin the annual event.

Presents of Mind

Delores Thornton (left) explains to Yolanda Hines how to publish her own book during the 23rd annual Presents of Mind Resource Show at Glendale Mall.

Angel Bratton (left) learns the art of fencing at the show. The event provided a hands-on learning experience for attendees. (Photos/J. Hurst)

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AKA 71st Central Regional Conference Dorothy W. Buckhanan, central regional director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. sits during the Welcome Reception of the sorority's 71st Central Regional Conference at the downtown Marriott hotel.

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Above: Local AKA members perform a song and dance to welcome sorors from other states to the Welcome Reception. Left: The regional choir sings a selection during the Rededication Breakfast. (Photos/J. Hurst)