Cathy and Ashley have been doing the “Healthy Ireland Smart Start Program” to help improve the health and well-being for the next generation. Oral health was one of the topics we talked about, so here’s what we learned: Children have 20 primary teeth, also known as their baby or milk teeth. These teeth start showing at around 6 months and these can be replaced by adult teeth from the age of 6 onwards. It is very important to teach your child good oral hygiene habits at a young age because this can lead to a lifelong healthy mouth. It is very important to start brushing these teeth as soon as possible. You can start practicing good oral health habits as soon as your child starts to show their first tooth for this you can use a very soft toothbrush without any toothpaste. You should not use toothpaste for a child that is under 2 years of age but when they are over 2 then you can start using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on the soft toothbrush.
So the Montessori room in Crawford Childcare in Glanmire have started to learn about brushing their teeth and what foods are good and bad for your teeth. We have been learning songs and playing games and we introduced art activities which included using a toothbrush as a paintbrush. We also did a sugar contents activity with the children to show how much sugar can be in different foods; you would be surprised to see the figures. During circle time Ashley decided to ask the Montessori class about brushing their teeth, Rían told us that he has a shark toothbrush which gives him strong teeth like a shark. Harry said that he brushes his teeth to make his teeth happy. Luke told us he brushes his teeth in the morning before school and at night before he goes to sleep so he has no sugar left on his teeth. Sophie told us she has three toothbrushes at home so she has a choice in what toothbrush she would like to use because it’s always nice to have a choice. Brushing your teeth and your children’s teeth shouldn’t be a chore so make it fun by putting on a song that lasts two minutes (Click link below). And remember your child’s teeth look tough but their teeth are not as strong as yours so they need extra attention.
http://www.aquafresh.com/aquafresh-kids/making-brushing-teeth-fun/