Getting Ready for the Tooth Fairy
Level 1 requires guided modelling. 'Getting Ready for the Tooth Fairy' reinforces healthy habits and safety awareness in structured format.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Follow 2–3 step directions
- Identify key safety or hygiene concepts
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- A large, illustrated picture book about losing a first tooth.
- A clean, plastic model of a human jaw with removable teeth.
- A small, decorative velvet pouch or envelope.
- Laminated photos of healthy snacks and sugary treats.
- A mirror for each child to observe their own teeth.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the purpose of teeth for eating and speaking.
- Demonstrate an understanding of sequence in a simple narrative.
- Practise active listening by answering two questions about the story.
- Recognise the concept of losing baby teeth as a natural growth process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and invite them to look at their own teeth in the provided mirrors.
2. Read the selected picture book aloud, using an expressive voice to keep the children engaged with the plot.
3. Pause during the story to ask simple questions, such as what the character is feeling or what they did with their tooth.
4. Introduce the plastic jaw model and demonstrate how a tooth might wiggle and eventually come out.
5. Show the children the velvet pouch and explain that it is a special place to keep a tooth safe for the tooth fairy.
6. Facilitate a sorting game where children place the laminated food photos into two piles, one for tooth-friendly snacks and one for sugary items.
7. Encourage children to share a story about a time they saw someone with a missing tooth or a loose tooth.
8. Conclude the session by having the children practise their best smiles for the class.
Educator Tip
Some children may feel anxious about the idea of teeth falling out. Keep the tone light and celebratory to frame this as a sign of growing up. If a child expresses fear, focus the conversation on how the body makes room for new, stronger teeth.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can correctly categorize at least three food items as healthy or unhealthy for teeth.
- Note if the child can recall one specific event from the story during the group discussion.
- Record whether the child can verbally describe why we keep our teeth clean.
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.