"You will lose set number one. And when you do, it's not much fun. But then you'll grow set number two! 32 teeth, and all brand new.16 downstairs, and 16 more upstairs on the upper floor." --Dr. Seuss, The Tooth Book

As parents, we can't help but to treasure the sweet smiles of our children--especially when they have no front teeth! However, we know that's just a stage and that our teeth must last a lifetime. It's very important to teach our children healthy dental habits for happy smiles throughout their lives. A perfect way to learn about dental health is this wonderful Project Pack by In the Hands of a Child. This 56-page, spiral-bound book is designed for grades 2-5 and begins with an introduction by the authors with tips for use and supplies needed. Next is the Research Guide, which contains all of the lessons for the activities. This guide is very informative and fun! Children will learn about the purpose of teeth, types of teeth, parts of teeth, proper brushing, healthy eating, the dentist, and even the Tooth Fairy! Did you know that in Mexico, there is a "Tooth Mouse" instead? You'll learn what different cultures do with their baby teeth, and some might surprise you! You will also learn to say "teeth" in five different languages! Do you need a great recipe for homemade toothpaste? This unit has one! The chapter on dentists will ease any fears that children may have about their visits by explaining step-by-step what to expect in the office, as well as familiarizing them with the tools that will be used. There is also a page of related books and web links to complement this Project Pack.

There are 18 activities, including vocabulary, timelines, and an experiment to name just a few. Each activity has a template that goes along with it to be added to the lapbook, which completes this project. There are wonderful graphics and black-and-white photos that make an impressive finished product. If you have never created a lapbook before, never fear. There are easy-to-follow instructions, complete with color photos of a finished lapbook for your reference. This Project Pack is organized and very well written, and it saves the teacher many hours of research! This was a terrific learning tool for my second grade son, and we both really enjoyed it. In the Hands of a Child has always given us something to smile about and this Dental Health unit is no exception. I happily recommend it!

Product review by: Amy Christy, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, July 2008