Children in the weekly Wiggle Kids class held a the Old Somerset Town Hall were joined by dentist James Silvia for a session on how what one eats affects dental health. Using large drawings of "Karen Cavity Head" and "Kathy Clean Teeth", Dr. Silvia challenged the children to pick items that would lead to unhealthy teeth, such as candy or soda, or to healthy teeth, such as water or sugarless gum. Following the exercise, the children received a gift bag with some games and a toothbrush. "The children could start to get the connection, even at an early age, using this method," noted Coach Kim who runs a weekly activity and health program for young children. The lesson is one of many that deliver a health message that children can learn and practice at home. The group is open to children from ages 2 to 5. An AIRE (Adaptive Inclusive Recreation and Education) program for children K through 5 for kids who have physical limitations, emotional challenges or social anxiety, also runs Thursday evenings at the Pottersville School. Click here for photos from the class. For more information about her classes, contact her at Coachkim@wigglekids.org.

(Top row) Coach Kim points to the two drawings, one of "Karen Cavity Head" and one of "Kathy Clean Teeth" and then asks them to pick out items from a bag to place over each picture. Some items are candy or soda, and some items are toothbrushes or water. (Middle row) Dr. Silvia helps the kids place their items on the pictures. (Bottom row) Coach Kim and Dr. Silvia ask the children to explain their choices and help them think about the kinds of things that they will eat and drink that will help to keep their teeth healthy.