Gary Moskowitz
NORTHWEST GLENDALE -- Seven-year-old Hazel Handan is flashing a
somewhat toothless smile these days.
With her baby front teeth out and her adult teeth just barely starting
to grow in, Hazel and other students have questions about teeth these
days.
Hazel and other first-grade students at Franklin Elementary got a
lesson in teeth brushing, flossing and tooth decay Wednesday as part of
the school district's partnership with Glendale Healthy Kids.
"You need your teeth to eat," Hazel said. "If you don't keep your
teeth clean, you get a gum attack. Then you lose your teeth and they
never come back."
Rachel Torres, a parent volunteer at Franklin, gave several
demonstrations to first-graders Wednesday using "Bessie," a cow hand
puppet. With large, fake teeth on the puppet, Torres was able to show
students how to brush appropriately and floss.
"This is a preventive program, just in case these things are not being
taught appropriately at home," Torres said.
Torres gave all students a new toothbrush, toothpaste and a calendar
to keep track of their cleanings after Wednesday's presentation with
"Bessie."
Glendale Healthy Kids is a nonprofit organization that works with
local physicians to help provide health care -- things like teeth
extractions and fillings -- for students whose family is without private
insurance.
Susan Hunt, a past president of the group's board of directors, said
parents and community volunteers work regularly with students throughout
the district on a variety of health programs.
For more information on Glendale Healthy Kids, call 548-7931.
