Mrs. Bennighoff’s students learned about the importance of brushing their teeth from Dr. Peter Blessington and his assistant, Jill Haldemann.
By Gary Weckselblatt
Kindergarten students at Pfaff Elementary School received a presentation on the importance of healthy tooth-brushing and eating habits from Dr. Peter Blessington and his assistant, Jill Haldemann.
The approximately 45-minute lesson, scheduled by kindergarten teacher Lynne Benninghoff, took place Friday, February 25.
“We want to motivate kids to be preventative patients,” said Dr. Blessington, who works at Upper Perk Family Dental in Pennsburg. The dental professionals spoke about why they wear glasses and scrubs and asked several questions of students and allowed each student to ask a question.
How many of you have a loose tooth? How many times a day are you supposed to brush your teeth (and your tongue too!)? How do you brush? (In circles was the correct response!) During the conversation about eating healthy foods, Dr. Blessington mentioned the importance of drinking water.
During a Q&A with students, they learned you should keep a toothbrush for about three months. Several students, rather than ask a question, ratted out their dads for drinking soda! They also spoke about “fun” ways to wiggle a loose tooth. Suggestions included taking a paper towel and pulling or biting into an apple.
Dr. Blessington and Mrs. Haldemann gave out goodie bags that included a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss (because a toothbrush doesn’t get everywhere) a timer, a tooth fairy box, a coloring book, and a pencil.
“This is a great opportunity for the children to learn early on how to take care of their personal hygiene,” Mrs. Benninghoff said. “Key components included: how and when to brush their teeth, learning about cavities, flossing, and understanding which foods are healthy for your teeth. Dr. Blessington and his assistant, Jill did a great job of explaining this in a very kid-friendly way. Remember to only brush the ones you want to keep! HAHA”
The presentation was videotaped by Quakertown Community High School students Brett Hileman and Nick Laudenberger.
Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529-2028 or [email protected]
