HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) is calling on third-grade students across the state to express their creativity and celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) by participating in its annual poster contest. The competition, which highlights the importance of good brushing habits, encourages young participants to learn about oral health while competing for exciting prizes.
Aligned with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) focus on fostering lifelong dental hygiene, the PDA contest provides a platform for children to explore the significance of proper brushing and oral care. The initiative reflects NCDHM’s mission to educate children and their caregivers on the value of dental hygiene and nutrition.
“As dentists, we stress the importance of teaching our young children the importance of oral health,” said Dr. Sam Mansour of Erie, chair of PDA’s statewide NCDHM program. “It is vital that we continue our outreach, educating kids and their caregivers about dental hygiene and nutrition. Their dental future is ours to help shape.”
Contest Details and Prizes
The contest invites third-graders to create posters that showcase their understanding of good oral hygiene practices. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries, fostering enthusiasm and engagement among participants.
- First Place: $500, with an additional $250 awarded to both the winner’s school and teacher.
- Second Place: $250.
- Third Place: $100.
The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 28, 2025. Entries must be mailed to the Pennsylvania Dental Association, Attn: NCDHM Poster Contest, 3501 N. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110.
Supporting Educators and Students
To aid classrooms in participating, the PDA has developed a range of educational resources designed to make learning about oral health fun and accessible. These free materials include bilingual posters, lesson plans, 2025 brushing calendars, engaging worksheets, and various classroom activities that align with this year’s theme.
Educators can download the resources electronically or request them by contacting Zsofia Kandrot at the PDA. These tools aim to equip educators with the means to inspire creativity while reinforcing the importance of dental care among students.
Promoting a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
The PDA’s poster contest is not only a celebration of creativity but also a vital step in promoting oral health awareness among children across Pennsylvania. By engaging young students and their caregivers, the initiative underscores the critical role of dental hygiene in overall health.
Through this interactive and educational program, the PDA hopes to inspire the next generation to adopt healthy habits and contribute to building a foundation for lifelong oral wellness. With excitement growing ahead of the February deadline, this year’s contest promises to leave a lasting impact on children and their understanding of dental care essentials.
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