Assisted in Developing Angel's Routine for Oral Hygiene Through Brushing Teeth

In a heartwarming tale of determination and perseverance, five-year-old Juliana, who lives with Angelman syndrome, has made significant strides in her daily routine, particularly in the area of tooth brushing.

Juliana, who is characterised by her hyperactivity, has well-established routines for toileting, calming, and lifting. However, tooth brushing, a task that may seem routine for most, presented a unique challenge.

Juliana used to purse her lips tightly during tooth brushing, making it difficult for her parents to brush her teeth effectively. This issue, combined with her occasional distractions or squirminess, made tooth brushing a challenging task.

To help Juliana understand the sequence of events, her teacher, Elisabeth Pelz, created a first-then board. This visual tool, placed in Juliana's bedroom and bathroom, has been instrumental in reinforcing the steps involved in tooth brushing.

The first-then board, a common tool for nonverbal communicators, helps break down tasks into simple, understandable steps. With the first-then board, Juliana has stopped lip pursing during tooth brushing, a significant improvement in her tooth brushing progress.

Juliana's progress doesn't stop at home. Her teacher, recognising the importance of this skill, has requested that she bring her toothpaste and toothbrush to school this year. Tooth brushing is now practiced at school, aiding Juliana in developing this important skill.

Despite her dislike of the toothbrush, Juliana does not have any dental issues. Angels with Angelman syndrome often have dental problems such as teeth gaps and thin enamel, necessitating diligent tooth brushing.

Juliana's tooth brushing journey is a testament to her resilience and the dedication of her parents, teachers, and caregivers. Everyday tasks for a child with Angelman syndrome may look different from those for the average child, but with the right tools and support, progress can be made.

Juliana performs activities at her own pace, and her progress is continuously celebrated. Tooth brushing is still a work in progress for Juliana and her parents, but with the help of her first-then board and the support of her school, they are making steady progress.

This news piece is about Angelman syndrome and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It serves as an inspiring story of a child overcoming challenges and the importance of patience, understanding, and perseverance in supporting children with special needs.