Vera Goes to the Dentist
Vera Series
on Goodreads (45)
What’s inside...
On Vera's first visit to the dentist, she has an unexpected reaction when he tries to polish her teeth. Vera wears her favorite cowgirl skirt to feel brave, but she is unprepared for the whirring tooth-cleaning machine and quickly runs away. This playful addition to the series addresses the fear young children may have about going to the dentist and illustrates how a little reassurance can go a long way in making new experiences less scary.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Vera
Vera'S Mom
Dentist
Discussion points
How do you think Vera felt when she first went to the dentist?
What are some things the dentist did to make Vera feel more comfortable?
Can you remember what tools the dentist used? Why do you think they are important?
How can visiting the dentist help us take care of our teeth?
What would you do to make a friend feel brave if they were nervous about going to the dentist?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey Vera's emotions throughout her dental visit, helping your child understand her feelings.
Discuss your own experiences with the dentist in a positive light to set a calm and reassuring tone.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the dentist and discuss the importance of oral hygiene in a simple, engaging way.
After reading, consider scheduling a dental appointment for your child to bridge the connection between the book’s theme and real-life practice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Vera shows bravery by going to the dentist despite feeling scared, demonstrating that it's okay to feel anxious about new experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by managing their own fears and anxieties, such as trying new activities or going to school.
Example Lesson: Importance of oral hygiene
Explanation: The story emphasizes the role of regular dental check-ups in maintaining healthy teeth, which Vera learns during her visit.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to adopt good dental habits like brushing twice a day and visiting the dentist regularly.
Example Lesson: Learning through curiosity
Explanation: Vera asks various questions about the tools and procedures, showing that curiosity can lead to learning and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to ask questions about the world around them, leading to a deeper understanding and knowledge.
Example Lesson: Empathy and support
Explanation: Vera's parents provide comfort and reassurance throughout her dental visit, teaching the importance of supporting others in challenging times.
Real-World Application: This encourages kids to be supportive and empathetic towards their friends and family members during their challenging moments.