Dental Hygiene Awareness
Level 1 requires guided modelling. 'Dental Hygiene Awareness' reinforces healthy habits and safety awareness in structured format.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Follow 2–3 step directions
- Identify key safety or hygiene concepts
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- Large plastic model of a set of teeth with a giant toothbrush.
- Laminated pictures of healthy foods versus sugary snacks.
- Small mirrors for each child.
- White playdough and plastic toy animals or dolls.
- A basin of water and a clean cloth for cleanup.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate the correct circular motion for brushing teeth using the model.
- Identify at least two types of food that are healthy for teeth.
- Practise looking at their own teeth in a mirror to build self-awareness.
- Explain why we brush our teeth using simple language.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and hold up the large tooth model to capture their attention.
2. Ask the children to use their mirrors to look at their own teeth and describe what they see.
3. Demonstrate the brushing motion on the model using slow, circular strokes to show how we clean all surfaces.
4. Invite each child to come forward and practise the circular brushing motion on the model.
5. Present the laminated pictures of food and ask the children to sort them into healthy items and sugary items.
6. Explain that sugar can make teeth feel sick, while healthy food keeps them strong.
7. Give each child a small ball of white playdough to press onto the teeth of a plastic animal toy.
8. Instruct the children to use a small brush or their fingers to remove the playdough, simulating the removal of food particles.
9. Lead a short group discussion about when we brush our teeth, such as after breakfast and before bed.
10. Conclude the activity by having the children wash their hands and put away the materials.
Educator Tip
If children struggle with the concept of circular motion, use a song with a repetitive rhythm to help them pace their movements. You can also extend this activity by creating a chart where children place a sticker each time they brush their teeth at home for a week.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can successfully mimic the circular brushing motion on the model.
- Note if the child can correctly categorize at least one healthy food item versus one sugary item.
- Listen for the child using vocabulary like brush, clean, or healthy during the sorting task.
Educator tip
Pre-cut difficult pieces; use visual schedule; model health vocabulary.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: engagement, comprehension, correct task attempt.