OLYMPIA, WASH. – The Hands On Children’s Museum will promote the importance of good oral health throughout the month of May. Children can meet a dentist and receive a free dental screening, enjoy special dental activities, and meet a superhero.
Free dental screenings will be offered by reservation from 2-4 pm on four Saturdays in May (1, 8, 15, and 22). Families who bring their children in for screenings receive free Museum admission. To reserve your spot call (360) 956-0818 ext. 163.
Fun, hands-on activities encourage children to sew a tooth fairy pillow, make a monster mouth puppet, and examine animal teeth under the microscope. Children can also get their photo taken with costumed superhero Amazon of Olympia, May 15 & 22 from 11:30-1:30 pm. All activities are free with screenings, admission, or membership.
The Hands On Children’s Museum is partnering with the Willamette Dental Group as the presenting sponsor of Dental Health Month and Small to Tall Pediatric Dentistry as the screening sponsor. Providence Health Services is supporting the effort as the Dental Appreciation sponsor.
“We’re proud to support these creative opportunities to educate youth in the Olympia area on the importance of oral health and bring awareness to developing these important life skills early on,” says Dr. Eugene Skourtes, CEO & President of Willamette Dental Group.
Due to COVID, many young families haven’t had the chance to visit a dentist’s office. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, every child should visit the dentist by age 1 – or as soon as the first tooth appears. By hosting the event at the Museum, kids learn about the importance of a healthy smile in a fun, learning environment. 2021 marks the 20th year that Hands On has offered free dental screenings to its visitors.
For a full schedule of screenings and activities, visit: https://www.hocm.org/dental-health-month
About the Hands On Children’s Museum
Located on Olympia’s downtown waterfront, the Hands On Children’s Museum is the leading play-based early learning institution in the state. It is also the most visited youth museum in the Pacific Northwest. The museum’s mission is to stimulate curiosity, creativity, and learning through fun, interactive exhibits, and programs. The museum offers a robust free and reduced Access Program that serves over one-third of its visitors. Its programs and exhibits are designed to encourage interaction and inquiry, and inspire a lifelong love of learning. To learn more, visit www.hocm.org.
