Learning to brush your teeth PDF pack
Learning to Brush Your Teeth β A Sensory Step-by-Step Guide πͺ₯π¦·
By The Sensory Project | Part of The Sibling Group
Digital Download | Printable PDF | Suitable for All Ages and Abilities
Learning to brush your teeth can be challenging for children, young people and adults, particularly those with sensory processing differences, learning disabilities, autism or additional needs.
At The Sensory Project, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to develop independence, confidence and essential life skills at their own pace.
Our Learning to Brush Your Teeth β Sensory Step-by-Step Guide provides a fun, practical and inclusive approach to developing toothbrushing skills through sensory exploration, play and repetition.
Rather than expecting someone to brush their teeth straight away, this resource breaks the process down into manageable stages, allowing individuals to explore different textures, sensations and equipment before gradually progressing towards brushing their own teeth.
What's Included?
Our illustrated downloadable resource includes:
πͺ₯ Explore Toothbrushes: Discover different toothbrushes, bristle textures and sensations.
π¦· Explore Toothpaste: Investigate toothpaste through touch, smell and sensory play.
π Sensory Alternatives: Explore toothpaste-like textures using sealed sensory bags or supervised shaving foam activities.
πͺ₯ Practise Brushing: Use model teeth or laminated pictures to practise brushing movements.
π§ Practise Squeezing: Develop hand strength and coordination by squeezing toothpaste tubes.
β¨ Brush Your Own Teeth: Gradually introduce toothbrushing when the individual feels comfortable and ready.
π¦· Printable Mouth and Teeth: A colourful picture that can be printed, laminated and used for brushing practice.
π Visual Toothbrushing Routine: Simple visual steps to support understanding and independence.
β Practice Tracker: Celebrate progress and encourage repetition.
π Sensory Adaptations: Helpful suggestions for parents, carers, educators and support workers.
Learn at Your Own Pace
There is no pressure to complete every stage in one session.
Individuals can explore, practise and repeat activities as many times as they need. Some may progress quickly, while others may benefit from spending longer exploring toothbrushes, textures or practising on model teeth.
Every small step is progress!
Who Is This Resource For?
This guide is suitable for:
Children, young people and adults
Individuals with or without additional needs
Autistic individuals
People with learning disabilities
Individuals with sensory processing differences
SEND schools and specialist education settings
Parents, carers and families
Support workers, educators and care professionals
Why Choose This Resource?
Our resource promotes:
Sensory exploration and confidence
Independence and essential life skills
Fine motor development
Familiarity with toothbrushing equipment
Positive, pressure-free learning experiences
Individual choice and participation
Important: Sensory play materials are for exploration only and must not be used as toothpaste or placed in the mouth. Continue age-appropriate, fluoride-based oral hygiene with suitable support and dental guidance while developing these skills.
Download Information
Format: Printable PDFPages: 8Delivery: Digital downloadPrinting: Suitable for A4 printingIncludes: Printable and reusable learning resources
Simply download, print and laminate the reusable activities to begin exploring toothbrushing skills.
Created by The Sensory Project, part of The Sibling Group, Registered Charity Number 1207168.
Helping everyone learn, explore and thrive through sensory experiences.
