DHF Ireland launches child oral health initiative for Traveller families
Ireland’s Dental Health Foundation has launched a child oral health initiative designed to support Traveller parents in caring for the dental health of children from birth to eight years of age.
At the centre of the initiative is Caring for Your Child’s Gums and Teeth – a practical and culturally inclusive educational flipbook, developed in collaboration with the Kerry Traveller Health and Community Development Project and Cork Traveller Visibility Group.
It is accompanied by a colourful fridge magnet featuring simple tooth care tips for families, and a new animated online video (available here)
Designed with accessibility in mind, the flipbook uses plain English, colour-coded sections and imagery that reflects Traveller culture and identity.
“We created the evidence-based resource along with our scientific advisory group, and significant input from Traveller Community Health Workers in Kerry and Cork to ensure that it speaks directly to the needs and experiences of Traveller families,” said a spokesperson.
Over the coming months, Community Health Workers in Kerry and Cork will participate in oral health workshops that will equip them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to deliver the resource locally within their communities. In time, the Foundation plans to expand the initiative nationally through a wider network of Community Health Workers.
