I Can Brush My Teeth by S. M. Johanson
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20361/G2ZP54Abstract
Johanson, Sarah Margaret. I Can Brush My Teeth. Montreal: Chouette Publishing, 2013. Print board book.
For almost 25 years, preschoolers have been delighted by stories of four-year old Caillou. The French Canadian series was initiated by author Christine L’Heureux in an effort to illustrate everyday experiences in a child’s life and how to cope under various circumstances. Child psychologists have typically been consulted in the development of the stories and this book is no exception, drawing on the expertise of child psychologist Francine Nadeau. Pediatric dentist Dr. Hélène Buithieu was also consulted to ensure accurate representation of proper oral health practices.
If the average toddler is anything like my three-year old niece, they will love this book! We read it six times over the course of a day. Caillou is growing up and wants to brush his teeth on his own without help from his parents. The story instructs the child to brush in little circles all around the mouth. While the story is a bit repetitive for an adult, this does not appear to be an issue with children and reinforces proper technique as recommended by dentists.
Children familiar with the Caillou television program might question why the parents look quite different from the same characters as presented on the show. My niece also astutely observed, “Where’s Rosie?” since the two-year old sister does not make an appearance. The story is simple, the illustrations colourful, and will hopefully encourage children to have fun brushing their teeth by themselves. However, you may have to buy your child sparkly toothpaste so they can brush like Caillou!
Recommended: 3 out of 4 stars
Reviewer: Trish Chatterley
Trish is a Public Services Librarian for the John W. Scott Health Sciences Library at the University of Alberta. In her free time she enjoys dancing, gardening, and reading books of all types.
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