Final answer:
True, washing hands with soap and water is the preferred method in schools and early childhood settings due to its effectiveness in removing pathogens and preventing the spread of diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Washing hands with soap and water is indeed the preferred method to use in schools and early childhood settings. This is because proper hand washing is considered the single most important defense against the spread of many pathogens, and following the correct procedure is vital for maintaining hygiene and health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outline important steps for handwashing which include: wetting hands with clean, running water, applying soap, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, rinsing well under running water, and drying with a clean towel or air drying.
Washing hands frequently, especially in a school environment, is critical in preventing the spread of illnesses such as the flu, coronavirus disease, and the common cold. Using soap and warm water to wash hands can effectively remove pathogens that may be present on one's hands after touching commonly used surfaces.
Moreover, in the context of early childhood settings, where children are highly susceptible to infections and diseases can spread rapidly, emphasizing the importance of regular handwashing with soap and water is a key public health education measure.