Germs and Your Defenses for Kids: How Your Body Fights Back (Grade 4 and 5 Science)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Germs are tiny living things that can make you sick. They are so small you need a microscope to see them. Today we will learn how your amazing body fights germs!

There are different kinds of germs. Bacteria are tiny single cells. Viruses are even smaller and cause colds and the flu. Not all bacteria are bad. Some living in your gut help you digest food!

Your skin is your first line of defense. It works like a wall, keeping most germs out. That is why it is important to clean and cover cuts, so germs cannot sneak in.

Your nose and throat have sticky mucus and tiny hairs that trap germs. When you sneeze or cough, your body is pushing germs out. Tears and saliva also help wash germs away.

If germs get inside, white blood cells go to work. They hunt down germs and destroy them. Your body can even remember a germ, so it fights faster the next time.

You can help your defenses. Wash your hands with soap for about twenty seconds. Cough into your elbow. Eat healthy food, get plenty of sleep, and get the vaccines your doctor recommends.

Now it's your turn. You come in from playing outside and it is snack time. What should you do first to stop germs? Pause and try. Wash your hands with soap and water!

Great job! Remember, germs are tiny living things. Your skin, mucus and white blood cells defend you, and healthy habits help too. Practice germs and your defenses in the Science Lab at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!