Bacteria
Bacteria are very tiny living organisms that we can see only through a microscope. They are shaped like balls, rods, commas or spirals and live everywhere: in air, water, soil and our bodies. More than 350 years ago the Dutchman Leeuwenhoek was the first to see them, through a microscope he made himself. Useful bacteria turn milk into yoghurt, help digestion, and in the soil break down dead plants and animals so that plants get food. Harmful bacteria cause disease. Antibiotics must be taken only when a doctor prescribes them. Vaccination protects the body in advance from some dangerous diseases.
“Hand-washing dance”: children pretend to wash palms, between fingers, thumbs and under nails one after another for 20 seconds while the teacher counts. Then list 3 times when we wash hands.