During Early Years’ Foundation Stage, a child’s first experiences with oral health can impact on the rest of their life.

That’s why it’s so important to teach them about their mouth and introduce them to good habits as soon as possible. It is equally vital to continue to ‘normalise’ dental visits and put them at ease with the role of a dentist as a person they can trust.

Our Early Years’ Foundation Stage framework sets out the requirements for the learning, development and welfare of children from birth to the end of the academic year in which their fifth birthday occurs.

The aim is to help young children achieve the five ‘Every Child Matters’ outcomes.

These include:

• Staying safe.

• Being healthy.

• Enjoying and achieving.

• Making a positive contribution.

• Achieving economic wellbeing.

We have included basic teaching of oral hygiene practice which is applicable within Physical Development Health and self-care.

The free resources we have made explain why and how children can keep their mouth healthy, along with best brushing practice. These resources allow children to manage their own basic hygiene and personal needs successfully

Complete this form to access our free Early Years' Foundation Stage Dental Buddy Resources   

In addition to free resources, please take a look at our other material in our online shop, including a tooth brushing reward chart to take home, tooth brushing puppet and classroom display posters.

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Useful links:

• Dental Buddy

• Children's teeth

• Dental care for mother and baby