Getting Ready for the Tooth Fairy
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'Getting Ready for the Tooth Fairy' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- A soft, plush toy with a wide, visible smile.
- A clean, soft-bristled infant toothbrush.
- A board book about teeth or smiles with high-contrast illustrations.
- A small, unbreakable mirror.
- A clean, damp washcloth.
Learning Objectives
- The infant will track the movement of the toothbrush with their eyes.
- The infant will respond to the teacher's voice through cooing or facial expressions.
- The infant will explore the texture of the toothbrush using their hands or mouth.
- The infant will demonstrate recognition of their own reflection in the mirror.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the infants in a comfortable, carpeted area with soft lighting to create a calm environment.
2. Hold the plush toy and introduce it to the group, pointing to its smile while using a gentle, animated tone.
3. Show the infants the toothbrush and allow them to touch the bristles to explore the texture safely.
4. Read the board book aloud, keeping the pace slow and pausing to point at the pictures of teeth or mouths.
5. Demonstrate how to clean the plush toy's teeth by gently rubbing the toothbrush against them.
6. Use the damp washcloth to gently wipe the gums of the infants who are comfortable with touch.
7. Hold the mirror in front of each infant, pointing to their mouth and saying the word teeth clearly.
8. Encourage the infants to look at their own reflection while you narrate the action.
9. Conclude the activity by singing a short, repetitive song about keeping our mouths healthy.
10. Ensure all materials are sanitized immediately following the session.
Educator Tip
Infants have very short attention spans, so keep the entire session under ten minutes. If an infant becomes fussy or disinterested, stop the activity and transition to a quiet sensory play task to maintain a positive association with the lesson.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant turns their head toward the sound of the teacher's voice during the story.
- Record whether the infant reaches out to touch the toothbrush or the plush toy.
- Note if the infant makes eye contact with their reflection in the mirror.
Educator tip
Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues; sanitize props; avoid small parts.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, sensory response, and regulation.