My Teeth's Favourite Things Graph
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'My Teeth's Favourite Things Graph' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Numeracy
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- Large poster board with two clear columns labelled with simple pictures of a toothbrush and a piece of fruit.
- Three-dimensional tactile objects such as a clean toothbrush and a plastic apple.
- Adhesive Velcro strips or double-sided tape.
- Laminated photos of common healthy snacks and dental tools.
- A soft floor mat for group positioning.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate visual tracking by following the movement of objects toward the graph.
- Engage in sensory exploration of items related to oral health.
- Respond to simple verbal cues and teacher modelling regarding dental hygiene.
- Develop early cognitive associations between objects and their functions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clear a space on the floor and place the poster board at the eye level of the infants while they are in a seated or tummy-time position.
2. Introduce the toothbrush and the plastic apple one at a time, allowing each infant to touch, hold, or mouth the items under close supervision.
3. Narrate the activity clearly by saying words like brush and eat while holding the corresponding objects.
4. Place the toothbrush on the floor near the toothbrush column of the graph.
5. Guide the hand of each infant to touch the toothbrush and then help them move it to the adhesive strip on the graph.
6. Repeat the process with the plastic apple, encouraging the infant to place it in the fruit column.
7. Use gentle, enthusiastic tone to celebrate each successful placement on the graph.
8. Keep the session brief, as infants have limited attention spans, and conclude once the items are displayed.
Educator Tip
Since infants learn through sensory input, ensure all objects are clean and safe for mouthing. If an infant loses interest, transition to a simple song about brushing teeth to maintain a positive association with the theme.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant reaches for or tracks the objects as they are moved toward the graph.
- Record whether the infant shows interest in the tactile difference between the toothbrush and the fruit.
- Note if the infant responds to the teacher's verbal prompts during the placement process.
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.