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Tools of the Trade
Learn how two two trusty tools help keep kids' teeth healthy.
It takes two tools to keep children’s smiles healthy for a lifetime: a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Toothbrush:
- Look for children’s toothbrushes that have small heads and soft bristles. Get children involved by letting them choose the color or pattern.
- Keep germs away by rinsing toothbrushes after brushing. Stand them up so they can air dry.
- Change children’s toothbrushes about every three months. If the bristles are no longer straight and firm, or if children have been sick, change the toothbrush right away.
Toothpaste:
- Help children learn to use the right amount of toothpaste by putting it on their toothbrushes. Children under age two need just a smear. Children ages two to five need a pea-size amount of toothpaste.
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Connecting & Communicating
Communication and connection with families is key to building a strong, effective healthy team.
![Visiting the Doctor Activity Guide Book.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Quest_ActivityGuidev2-copy-667x500.png)
Visiting the Doctor: Helping Kids Grow Up Strong & Healthy
Preparation and communication help you get the best care for your child at every medical visit.
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Communicating at Doctor’s Visits
Good communication leads to good care for your child.
![an Illustrated Elmo holding a doll next to Abby Cadabby.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/SSIC_Quest_Interactive_LetsGoToDoctor-667x500.jpg)
Elmo and Abby’s Check-up Play Date
Pretend play can help children “rehearse” situations that may frighten them.
![A storybook cover featuring Rosita hugging a doctor.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SSIC-Quest-April-Storybook-RositasFavorite-ENG-2-667x500.jpg)
Rosita’s Favorite
Regular check-ups can be a fun and informative experience for the whole healthy team, kids included!
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My Whole Healthy Life: Meet Reignen
A video about the different ways a Native American child and his family stay healthy.
![A family walks through a field holding hands.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SSIC-Quest-April-Video-Wastatse-Family-667x500.jpg)
My Whole Healthy Life: Meet Wa.Sta.Tse
A video about the different ways a Native American child and her family stay healthy.