One step at a time
Overview
One step at a time
Looking after your child’s teeth is important, but we know it can be challenging, especially for autistic children who might find healthy eating and drinking, toothbrushing and dental visits difficult. That’s why we’ve created these ‘one step at a time’ boxes throughout the toothPASTE website. These provide easy, practical tips to help you on days when a full brushing routine may not be possible. Think of these boxes as friendly reminders to make things manageable, not to add pressure and taking it one step at a time. Hear from Nikki, Anne-Marie and Shila about this.
Nikki’s Story: Small steps that make a difference
Building toothbrushing habits one step at a time
Toothbrushing can be challenging for many autistic children, so we’ve designed a 'one step at a time' approach to make it easier. On this page, you’ll find guidance that breaks toothbrushing down into small, achievable steps, helping you work gradually toward a full brushing routine. This approach aims to support you in building up to brushing, one small victory at a time.
Each step is designed to help your child feel more comfortable with brushing, allowing you to go at their pace and celebrate progress, no matter how small. This guidance is part of the broader resources available on the toothPASTE website, where you’ll find additional advice, practical tips, and stories from other parents. Our goal is to provide you with tools that make oral health a positive experience, no matter where your family is on this journey.
Below is a draft version of the one step at a time resource.
Building eating and drinking habits one step at a time
For some families, success might mean a child feeling comfortable touching new food with a fork or their hand, while for others, it could be gently placing food near their lips or simply sitting calmly around unfamiliar foods. These moments of progress, no matter how small, are worth celebrating.
If you’re feeling unsure, take inspiration from Shila and Anne-Marie, two parents who’ve shared their one-step-at-a-time stories. Their experiences remind us that progress isn’t about perfection but about moving forward in ways that work for your family.
That’s why we’ve included ‘One Step at a Time’ boxes throughout the toothPASTE website. These simple, practical tips are here to support you on days when things like toothbrushing feel like too much.
Anne Marie and Shila's story: Small steps that make a difference in eating and drinking
