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The Germ Buster program consists of fun resources and activities for children, staff and parents and a guideline for centres. The Germ Busters program is based on sound principles of effective learning and teaching and is designed to be easily integrated into early childhood centres to create healthier, safer and more supportive environments.
Find out more information about the program and discover what's in the Germ Busters Early Childhood Kit.
One of the most popular fun and educational Germ Busters activities is the Ultraviolet Germ Viewing Lightbox. This activity is a fun way for children and adults to "see" the germs on their hands or on objects. If you reside on the Gold Coast, you can borrow one of our ultra violet germ viewing light boxes by completing the following form UV Light Box Booking Form. Alternatively, you can build your own light box and amaze your children with glowing germs using germ busting gel.
Program History
The Germ Busters Early Childhood Program was developed for use in the early childhood setting by the Gold Coast Public Health Unit in partnership with a number of key stakeholders and six focus group child care facilities.
The program aims to reduce the risk of the spread of infection within child care settings by increasing knowledge and skills in correct hand washing.
Germ Busters Early Childhood is based on international research, which proves the links between effective handwashing and infection control in early childhood settings.
Program Evaluation
Germ Busters Early Childhood has been thoroughly evaluated by Queensland Health. The evaluation showed a significant increase in the number of children washing their hands at appropriate times, for the recommended duration, whilst using a better technique. In addition, extensive qualitative data has demonstrated high program acceptance among child care professionals who eagerly adopt the program, often including it in their child care facility policies.
A complete copy of this Early Childhood Evaluation Report has been made available for your reference.
How Germ Busters Supports Key Child Care Policies
Germ Busters Early Childhood is based on the best available infection control guidelines and supports existing licensing policies for child care facilities. The program aligns with the National Childcare Accreditation Council's Principle Standards relating to hygiene and infection control. The program is also a key component of the C&K's (the Creche and Kindergarten Association) hygiene policy.
Germ Busters Early Childhood is a quality resource that can assist child care facilities as they undertake the accreditation process.
