Self Care Basics: Teeth Brushing

Activity Description: Prepare youth for an overnight trip by practicing how to pack, use, and properly clean dental care items.

Items Needed:

One toothbrush
One toothpaste tube
One toothbrush travel case or cover
One small cup for rinsing
Sink with running water
One overnight packing bag or backpack
(Optional) Two-minute sand timer or visual timer
(Optional) Floss picks or child-safe mouthwash samples

Before the Meeting Starts:

Know your troop. (5 min)
- Learn about any specific dental restrictions or family routines for the youth.

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 20 min):

Packing up toothbrushes for an overnight stay. (5 min)
- Show dental supplies packed in an overnight bag and identifying what to bring. Ensure there is a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a protective travel case.
- Discuss whether they use extra items at home like floss picks or mouthwash to see if those need to be packed too.
Try it out together. (5 min).
- Simulate brushing for the full recommended duration using a timer. Explain that thorough brushing takes two full minutes to keep teeth healthy.
- Have everyone (youth and leaders) practice the brushing motions with a pretend toothbrush for the full amount of time.
Demonstrate clean up. (5 min).
- Show how to thoroughly rinse and dry the toothbrush before packing it away. Wash the bristles under running water until all hidden white toothpaste residue is completely gone.
- Tap the brush gently against the sink or wipe it with a clean towel so it does not stay completely wet inside the travel case.
Clean up. (5 min)
- Pack the clean items back into the overnight bag to finish the routine
- Place the semi-dry toothbrush into its case and zip it safely back into the bag.
- (Optional) Quiz them on how many minutes they need to brush when the overnight trip happens.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
_{(Not an official GSUSA Group)}

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
_{(Not an official GSUSA Group)}

See other Recommended Facebook Groups for some Scouting Organizations
_{(No official Groups)}

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Published on May 16, 2026. Author:

Tia Kennard

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