Never in the curriculum do we talk about how many teeth a cow has, nor do I think the children go home with the impression that Bessie is a real cow with real teeth.
She's a prop, and the children love her.
Bessie has been working with us for about 10 years now and helps us get through a three-part program that teaches children the importance of regular brushing, proper nutrition, playground safety and how to floss. A dental professional attends the third session and explains to the children what to expect when going to the dentist.
Sadly, many of our children have never seen a dentist, and this program introduces them to the importance of long-term dental care.
For years, our volunteers passed around our limited number of Bessies, driving back and forth to deliver the puppets so the next volunteer could use her in the classroom. A few years ago, we received a grant from PPG Industries Foundation, which allowed us to purchase more equipment for our program. The first order of business was to order more puppets. Alas!
We were told that Bessie the Cow had been retired, and Max the Mustang would be the new ambassador of dental hygiene.
Someone in the puppet business must have figured out that cows don't have a full set of teeth, but horses do.
So, as the old Bessies are phased out one by one, they will be replaced by Max, an equally adorable and lovable puppet.
Each of these puppets costs more than $80, and we work hard soliciting community and foundation funds so that we can buy them.
Hey, perhaps Weling would like to pitch in. We welcome any donation toward our programs and are always in need of volunteers.
In any case, rest assured, our purpose in the classroom is to guide, not misguide.
CATHY KEEN
