Setting the Stage for Tactile Understanding - American Printing ...

• Have the child practice squeezing toothpaste onto a toothbrush — a pea-sizedab is adequate. Provide a travel-size toothpaste tube that is suitable for littlehands to squeeze. Remind the child that toothpaste is used for brushing teethand not for eating.• Arrange a time with the dentist when the child can examine the tools thatthe dentist or hygienist uses to clean teeth and compare them toregular toothbrushes.• Practice basic directional movements/concepts afforded by the simple task ofbrushing teeth (circular motions, up and down, behind, floss between teeth,front versus back teeth, etc.)• Discuss the importance of regularly brushing one’s teeth. Have the childmaintain a chart at home to record the number of times he brushes his teetheach day. APH Feel ’n Peel Smiley Face Stickers can be used as rewards forbrushing his teeth.• Focus on the feel and shape of various types of toothbrush bristles (soft, flared,stiff, contoured, etc.).40 Showtime