How We Support Giulietta’s Independence During Her Toothbrushing Routine

We place a strong emphasis on personal care for Benji and Giulietta, recognizing that these routines are an important part of their daily independence and overall well-being. While they may need support to complete certain tasks, we also encourage them to take an active role and develop the skills necessary to care for themselves.

Our approach balances guidance with opportunities for independence, helping Benji and Giulietta build confidence and competence in everyday routines.

Giulietta will be encouraged to find her toothbrush and toothpaste after dressing. This step helps her build responsibility for her personal care tasks. She is also encouraged to use her iPad to ask for help or indicate that she has found her toothbrush and toothpaste, using her personal care folder on Proloquo. Benji will follow the routine without using an iPad, focusing on completing the steps independently with support as needed.

Once they have located their toothbrush and toothpaste, support will help squeeze the appropriate amount of toothpaste onto their toothbrush using hand-over-hand guidance as needed.

The support worker will begin by brushing Benji and Giulietta’s teeth, modelling correct brushing technique using back-and-forth motions to clean the teeth effectively.

After the support worker has brushed their teeth for one minute, both Benji and Giulietta will be encouraged to brush on their own. Giulietta will continue to use back-and-forth motions, supported with her iPad if needed, aiming for 5-10 motions on each side. Benji will follow the same steps, practicing the motions with verbal and physical guidance as needed.

As they become more comfortable with the routine, we will gradually reduce the level of assistance. They will be encouraged to complete more of the brushing motions independently. Over time, both Benji and Giulietta will develop the skills necessary to brush their teeth with minimal support or guidance.