Join the Maryland State Department of Education’s Division of Early Childhood, American Dental Association, Maryland Dental Action Coalition, Colgate, National Head Start Association, the Judy Center Early Learning Hubs, and thousands of schools and programs nationwide to celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month in February!

Now in its 63rd year, this monthlong observance also brings together dental care professionals, health care providers, and others to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, parents, families, teachers, and providers. According to the American Dental Association, the first Children’s Dental Health Day was held on Feb.  8, 1949. In 1955, the single-day celebration became a weeklong event. By 1981, the program grew to a monthlong event celebrated annually.

This year’s National Children’s Dental Health Month campaign slogan is, “Brush and clean in between to build a healthy smile.”  In fact, research shows that good habits established during the early years are critical to maintaining oral health that lasts a lifetime. By participating in National Children’s Dental Health Month , parents, families, teachers, providers, and others can work together to  ensure children build healthy, happy smiles.

Parents and Families: If you have children birth through kindergarten, you can get answers to questions about thumb-sucking, the first dental visit, or how and when to clean your child’s teeth.  Many of The Judy Center Early Learning Hubs will be hosting several FREE dental clinics. Also, please take a moment to review the resources listed below.

Teachers and Providers:  Engage parents and families while helping children learn more about the importance of good oral health and a healthy smile. Take a moment this month to review the list below for resources and age-appropriate activities from the American Dental Association, National Head State Association, Maryland Dental Health Coalition, Colgate, and other organizations.

For more information about how to help children have healthy dental habits and healthy smiles, check out the following resources:

• Nine Tips to Ensure Children Build a Healthy Smile
• National Children’s Dental Health Month Poster (also in Spanish)
• National Children’s Dental Health Month Activity Sheets (for teachers and providers)
• Lesson Plans (for teachers and providers)
• Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures