Invite the children to play "scientist" and mix chemicals to make toothpaste.

Materials:

• 4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon flavoring (vanilla, almond or peppermint extract)
• Toothbrush
• Air-tight container

Directions:

Mix the ingredients together. Be sure to cover the container with a tight-fitting lid after each use.

This activity can also give you an opportunity to talk with children about what we do to care for our teeth, like:

• Brushing in the morning and before bedtime
• Brushing after meals (when we can)
• Flossing to get out the bits of food and to keep our gums healthy
• Brushing or rinsing after eating sweet and sticky foods.

You might find that the children pay more attention to dental care and brushing because you've worked together to make the toothpaste.

Talk about your own positive experiences with dentists and doctors to let your children know you think of medical people as kind and caring. Let your child know ahead of time what to expect on a visit to the doctor or dentist so your child can get ready for those experiences and be better able to cope.

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