Nkyinkyim visit to the Dentist
As part of the school's enquiry-based-learning approach, our Nkyinkyim class (Year 3 & Year 4) and their teachers visited the St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital in Hwidiem as part of their Science lesson on The Dental Features of Dinosaurs. The class was interested in the anatomy of the tooth, types of human teeth, their functions and general dental healthcare. For early years and primary school children, a class visit to the dentist is a great way to engage children in positive oral health messages, whether it is demonstrating good tooth brushing techniques, giving lessons on sugar in food and healthy diets, or even simply good day-to-day advice on oral health routines.
The group left school on Wednesday, 10th April 2019 and arrived at 10.00am prompt. At the hospital, they were met by the Dental team led by Dr. Richard Selormey, who was wonderful, knowledgeable, and great with children. They started learning within minutes and never stopped. There were role plays and students posed as dentists and patients. Our patients overcame their fear of the famous dentist chair while our little dentists performed a thorough examination of their patient’s teeth, gums and mouth and looked for signs of disease or other problems.
Having this up-close-and-personal experience with a dentist deflated the children’s dental phobia and sparked an ongoing curiosity in teeth. They did not only learn about teeth and oral healthcare but also left with their own toothbrushes. What a delightful treat!
We wish to express our sincere appreciation to the Administrator and Dental team of the St. Elizabeth Hospital, particularly to Dr. Selormey for making it possible for our children to enjoy this invaluable field trip that brings learning alive.