How to Brush Teeth: Sequencing Cards for National Children's Dental Health Month

The American Dental Association sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month every February. Their goal is to focus on the importance of oral health, though it should be a priority throughout the year. Teach children how to brush teeth with this sequencing activity.

Materials Needed:

* 2 copies of the "How to Brush" poster from the American Dental Association
* Construction paper
* Scissors
* Glue
* Lamination

How to Create the Brushing Sequencing Cards

1. Print 2 copies of the "How to Brush" poster.

2. Mount one copy on a construction paper background.

3. Cut apart the four pictures and five sentences, and mount them onto construction paper cards that are the same size. Note that the second and third steps actually both go with the second picture.

4. Laminate all of the cards for durability.

How to Use the Brushing Sequencing Cards

1. Introduce the poster to the children, as part of a presentation on how to brush your teeth as good dental hygiene during National Children's Dental Heath Month.

2. Match one card at a time by overlaying it on the poster.

3. Return the cards to the basket, and place the entire activity back on the shelf.

Alternative Ideas for the Brushing Sequencing Cards

* Make cards that separate the picture from the instructions. Make this a reading comprehension activity, as the child has to put the pictures in order and label them accordingly.

* Post a copy of the poster near the bathroom sink as a reminder for children to brush twice daily.

* If possible, provide individual toothbrushes and toothpaste, so that children can practice brushing teeth at school.

* Use a toothbrush with toothpaste to clean a set of false teeth. Baking soda is good alternative.

* An eggshell is made of almost identical material to human teeth. Soak a hard-boiled egg in Coke Classic overnight, to demonstrate how sugar can discolor and hurt teeth. Children can use toothpaste or baking soda to try to brush the egg clean.

* You can also make a Spanish version of these activities.