“1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8…” , the voices of the children rang through the air, counting to the rhythm of tooth brushing.
In Dec 2012, a team of us from Singapore conducted hygiene workshops for the children of Goducate Cambodia. Oral hygiene was one key segment. We know the kids have toothbrushes, but are they brushing correctly?
Our youths, using pictorials, explained about tooth decay—-what is it, how it happens. Then came the brushing. With a plastic tooth model, the team demonstrated the proper tooth-brushing method, highlighting the importance of brushing up-down, inside, and the tongue.
We then got the children into practical action. On the tooth model, they showed how they would brush the teeth, while the rest counted and corrected them if it was not properly done. Some brushed with such vigor it looked more like toilet scrubbing!
The tooth model turned out to be a real hit with the kids. Those who had earlier indicated that they did not like tooth brushing were all excited to brush the giant teeth.
Overall, we all had great fun learning together. Hopefully, the enthusiasm will lead on to good oral habits, and each child will joyfully beam with sparkling pearlies for life!
Guest writer Mey, Volunteer from Singapore