This educational book, part of the Binkie & Friends’ Adventures series, aims to encourage young children to visit the dentist and ease any anxiety they may have about it.
The authors, Julie Alison McDonald and Anna Emilia, have written the book in rhyming verse and targeted it at children, including those with additional needs and social or sensory differences, such as children who are neurodivergent.
The story follows Hedgy the hedgehog’s first visit to the dentist and provides children with an insight into what to expect during their own dental visits.
The book also includes a step-by-step guide on maintaining oral hygiene, an award chart, Hedgy stickers, and other extras.
Julie Alison McDonald, one of the authors, said: “I understand first hand how difficult it can be to persuade your neurodivergent child to visit the dentist.
“A book like this would have been so useful when my son was younger.”
The book follows the current NHS teeth cleaning guidelines and aims to be a resource to help local authorities across England implement supervised toothbrushing in schools and nurseries.
Lucy Borthwick, NHS oral health promoter and dental nurse, praised the book, saying: “As a team we’d been looking for a resource for children that helps prepare them for a dentist visit.
“Meeting Julie last year and then seeing the dream become a reality has been incredible.
“I can’t wait to share the books with our patients and see the difference they will make.”
The book launch is scheduled for Thursday, September 25, at Waterstones in Brighton at 6.30pm.
The event will feature a talk for adults, while children can enjoy some colouring activities.
There will also be a question and answer session after the talk, providing the opportunity to purchase books and have them personally signed.
Tickets cost £4 per adult or £12 for a ticket and book and can be purchased online through the Waterstones website.
Children can attend for free.
The book can be purchased from Waterstones, Cogmaze Publishing or select independent bookstores.