United StatesHealthy Teeth
Grade Levels: Pre-K - 2
Objectives
- Children will practice their observation skills.
- Children will learn about dental health.
Materials
- Tea
- Coffee
- Cola
- Water
- Paper
- Pencils
- 4 raw eggs
- 4 clear cups
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrushes
- Other liquids, such as vinegar or milk
Procedures
- Break children into groups of four and distribute the eggs and the cups.
- Ask children to place each egg in a different cup, and cover it with one of the above liquids.
- At the beginning of the day, for four days in a row, ask children to observe the eggs and write down any changes they see in them.
- After a few days, remove the eggs and encourage children to describe what happened to them and why.
- Ask children:
- How are teeth like eggs?
- What will happen to your teeth if you drink cola, tea and coffee all the time?
- Explain to children that the enamel on teeth is stained by certain liquids, but brushing them can remove stains and help prevent decay.
- As extension activities, do the following:
- Have children gently brush the egg with toothpaste and a toothbrush to see what happens.
- Soak the eggs in other liquids and let children predict what will happen.
- Invite a dentist to talk to the class about dental health and why it is important to brush frequently.
- Make a list of foods that are not good for your teeth.
- Ask the children to look in the mirror and count the number of teeth in their mouths.
