Why do we teach children about oral health?

Good oral health habits need to be formed from the earliest age. Poor oral health can have a negative impact on children's learning and progress. Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it’s still a serious problem among young children.

In our EYFS we teach oral health through self-care, healthy eating and physical development. It is not a "one off" session. It is continually taught and revisited during the school year.

Children learn through playful experiences as seen in the photos below and staff use stories and singing to further promote learning. Children are encouraged to brush the teeth of dolls or soft toys at school and at home. Our staff team regularly talk to children about healthy food and drinks that help to grow strong teeth, and those that do not. Children are encouraged to look at their own and each other’s teeth, using mirrors.

Our top song for cleaning our teeth is to the tune of 'Here we go round the mulberry bush'...

"This is the way we brush our teeth, brush our teeth, brush our teeth, 

This is the way we brush our teeth in the morning and at bedtime."

We give knowledge and advice to parents and carers to support oral health at home.

We also support children’s awareness of oral health by:

• having a visit from a dentist them 
• showing toothbrushing kits and allowing them to use them on models and toys in play
• showing toothbrushing routines