Oral Health and Early years

Why oral health is included in the EYFS framework

This has been included because good oral health habits need to be formed from the earliest age. Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it’s still a serious problem among young children.

Nearly a quarter of 5 year olds in England have tooth decay, with 3 or 4 teeth affected on average. Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures for children under 6 in hospital. Extraction is also the most common reason for hospital admission for children aged 6 to 10.

Children who have toothache, or need treatment, may have pain or infections. This can have a wider effect and lead to problems eating, sleeping, socialising and learning.

At Lucy Lockets we promote good oral health by using play as a commodity for exploring topics of why and how we should brush our teeth.

We have healthy eating and drinking policies which ensure only drinks without sugar in them are provided by nursery.

Water and Milk are available as and when the children require.

Older children will enjoy planned activities about oral health during their time at nursery.