
Adventures with Clever Clara 2. "The Sparkling Smile Quest"
By OMOLOLU D. AIYEOLA A

14 Oct, 2023

In the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, lived a bright and curious 7-year-old girl named Clara. A girl with a heart full of kindness with big sparkling eyes that were always full of wonders. Known by everyone as Clever Clara, she was always eager to learn new things. Today, her quest for knowledge and personal growth continues. As the sun rose over the bustling streets, she was about to embark on a new adventure - taking care of herself by learning about the importance of dental hygiene.

Clara's mom explained to her the dangers of tooth decay caused by not brushing her teeth properly. "This is another life skill, my dear, it's like the keys to a treasure chest of knowledge. They help us take care of ourselves and others". Clara listened attentively, her big brown eyes filled with curiosity. She was ready to learn how to maintain her sparkling smile. It happened that Clara did not know the right amount of toothpaste to use and how long to brush her teeth, her first challenge.

Her dad joined them, holding a colorful toothbrush. He taught her how to put the right quantity of toothpaste on the brush and the right technique to brush her teeth. "Small, circular motions, Clara. Don't forget the back teeth!" he instructed. She overcame these challenges and grew more confident every day. Interactive Activity 1: Tooth Counting Game - Count the teeth while brushing and practice basic math skills. 2: Toothbrush Craft - create their own toothbrush craft to learn proper brushing

Clara's parents took her to the local market to choose her toothpaste. Clara picked a strawberry-flavored one, excited to start her dental hygiene journey. She also learned about the importance of flossing, and the practice of cleaning between your teeth using dental floss. It helps to remove debris that sticks to teeth between the teeth and under the gums cleaning where the toothbrush can't. It helps prevent cavities, bad breath, and most importantly, gum disease caused by bacteria- gross!

Visiting Lekki Conservation Center, Clara and her family hopped in their car and went on an adventure across the famous Lekki Link Bridge. They looked out the car windows and saw a big, beautiful Lagos Lagoon. It was like looking at a giant painting! But guess what? At the Lekki Conservation Center, Clara met some funny animals with super-strong teeth. These animals taught her that eating was like giving their teeth a magic spell to stay healthy, just like brushing her own teeth at home!

Clara and her mum experienced the famous and colorful Lagos local Festival. The event, called Fanti or Caretta Carnival, is an annual tradition passed down from years ago. Usually held on the first day of the year and was inspired by former slaves who returned from Brazil to Lagos in the 19th century. At the festival, Clara was tempted by the sugary treats. But then she remembered the lessons about tooth decay. She chose a healthier snack instead, proving her commitment to her dental hygiene.

One evening, Clara's parents introduced a game of 'Spot the Difference' with images of clean and decayed teeth. Clara found it fascinating and understood the importance of keeping her teeth clean. Clara's favorite part of the day became brushing her teeth. She loved the taste of her strawberry toothpaste and the tickling sensation of the brush on her gums. She was proud of her dental care routine.

Clara and her dad came up with a catchy song, 'Brush Twice a Day'. They would sing it every morning and night while brushing their teeth. It became a fun routine that Clara eagerly looked forward to. Sing-Along Song: "Sparkling Smile" (Verse 1) Brush my teeth, up and down, In my mouth, all around. Keep them strong, oh-so neat, With my toothbrush, it's a treat! (Chorus) Sparkling smile, bright and wide, With my brush, I'll take good care. Life skills, oh so neat, With Clara, it's a treat!

Clara and her dad came up with another song, 'Brush Twice a Day'. They would sing it every morning and night while brushing their teeth. It became a fun routine that Clara eagerly looked forward to. (Verse 1) In the morning when you wake up, don't delay, It's time to start a brand new day, Grab your toothbrush, let's begin, With a smile, let's all sing: (Chorus) Brush, brush, brush twice a day, Keep those germs and cavities away, Up and down, and all around, Healthy teeth, let's all be proud!

(Verse 2) Toothpaste on your toothbrush, just a little pea, Now let's brush those teeth so clean, Don't forget the back and sides, And your sparkling smile will be your guide. (Chorus) (Verse 3) Two minutes long is all it takes, To make your smile truly great, Morning and night, it's a must, For a mouth that you can trust. (Chorus) (Bridge) Don't forget to floss between, Those pearly whites, it keeps them clean, And when you're done, don't rinse away, Spit the foam, and that's OK.

(Chorus) (Verse 4) Now you're all done, and your teeth feel strong, You've been brushing right all along, With your smile so bright, you can say, "I brushed twice today!" (Chorus) (Outro) So let's remember, come what may, To brush our teeth every day, Twice a day, that's the way, For healthy teeth, hooray! End of song. Clara also learned the importance of regular dental check-ups. She visited the dentist with her mom.

Clara's mum reassured her that there was nothing to be afraid of. Clara left the clinic with a wide, toothy grin. As weeks passed, Clara mastered the art of brushing her teeth. She was no longer a novice but a tooth-brushing champion. Her parents were proud of her and Clara was proud of herself. Clara's journey from a dental novice to a tooth-brushing champion was a remarkable one, and she was excited to share her story with other kids to inspire them to take care of their smiles too.

Clara was a quick learner. She understood that dental hygiene was more than just about having a nice smile; it was about overall health. She promised to continue her new routine and take care of her teeth. Clara's toothbrush adventure taught her that good habits formed at a young age last a lifetime. She was happy to have learned such an essential skill and was ready to share her knowledge with her friends.

Clara had learned a valuable lesson in a fun and engaging way. She was no longer just Clever Clara, she was now Clever Clara with the sparkling smile. She couldn't wait to begin her next adventure. Join Clara on her journey as she explores essential life skills, from dressing oneself to brushing teeth, visiting wonderful landmarks within and outside her city, and more. This series is not just a storybook; it's an exciting learning tool for young readers to develop crucial skills for success.