The Development of an Oral Hygiene Kit for Preschool Children: Integrating Play-Based Learning and Visual Communication

Abstract

Oral-health education during early childhood is important for developing preventive hygiene habits and positive attitudes towards dental care. This study developed an Oral Hygiene Kit as a printed, play-based educational tool for preschool children aged four to six years. Using an Action Research approach, the study involved four stages: (i) issue identification, (ii) design and ideation, (iii) implementation, and (iv) evaluation and refinement. The final kit consisted of a board game, flash cards, and a Rubik's Cube, packaged within a child-friendly visual design. The Rabbit Dentist character was used as the central visual identity to create familiarity, encourage engagement, and reduce children’s unfamiliarity with dental-care concepts. The materials were implemented in a dental-clinic setting, where children interacted with the tools while waiting for consultation or treatment. Findings indicate that interactive printed materials can support oral-health communication by combining visual, tactile, and play-based learning experiences. The study highlights the potential of printed educational tools and packaging design as effective media for promoting early oral-health awareness in informal healthcare environments.