Books And Smiles Is Back To Encourage Kids To Brush
With Halloween just days away, Wake County Public Health and Wake County Public Libraries are teaming up to help kids protect their teeth from all those sweet treats by bringing back the popular Books & Smiles storytime series —a fun and educational program designed to promote healthy bedtime routines.
Books & Smiles encourages families to incorporate brushing their teeth, reading a bedtime story and establishing a calming routine to ensure children’s dental health remains a priority, even after indulging in Halloween candy.
“This program gives families a playful way to build healthy habits before bedtime, ensuring that children practice good dental hygiene while enjoying the magic of storytime,” said Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters. “The partnership between our dental clinic and libraries helps meet families where they are and provides a great connection to our Smiles at Sunnybrook program for ongoing dental care.”
Throughout November, Books & Smiles will rotate to six library locations, offering families the opportunity to participate in these fun storytime programs:
- Monday, Nov. 4, at 11 a.m., Wake Forest Community Library, 400 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest
- Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 10:30 a.m., Southgate Community Library, 1601-14 Crosslink Road, Raleigh
- Thursday, Nov. 7, at 10 a.m., Fuquay-Varina Community Library, 271 Bramblehill Drive, Fuquay-Varina
- Friday, Nov. 8 at 10:30 a.m., Green Road Community Library, 4101 Green Road, Raleigh
- Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m., Richard B. Harrison Community Library, 1313 New Bern Ave., Raleigh
- Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 10:30 a.m., Zebulon Community Library, 1000 Dogwood Drive, Zebulon
Each participating child will receive a special kit, which includes a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental-themed goodies to take home. Additionally, families will have access to informative materials and resources on maintaining oral health.
The Book & Smiles program is based on the American Academy of Pediatrics campaign Brush, Book, Bed, that helps parents establish a nighttime routine for their children.
For more information about Books & Smiles and to stay updated on the schedule of events, please visit wake.gov/smiles.