Recognising the importance of engaging with children in their own language, Captain Toothpaste has recently been taking Gaelic conversational classes with Hannah Gillies, Literacy and Numeracy Support Worker at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
Captain Toothpaste is a familiar face in schools and pre-school settings across Lewis and Harris, delivering fun and interactive sessions to help children learn about the importance of brushing their teeth, making healthy food choices, and looking after their smiles. Now, thanks to his Gaelic learning journey, he’ll be able to incorporate more Gaelic into his visits, further strengthening the language in early years settings.
A spokesperson for NHS Western Isles Childsmile team said:
“We’re delighted that Captain Toothpaste is embracing Gaelic as part of his work. Engaging with children in their own language helps to reinforce key health messages in a meaningful way. We hope this will add an extra element of fun and encourage even more children to get involved in learning about good oral health.”
Hannah Gillies, who has been supporting Captain Toothpaste’s Gaelic learning, said:
“It’s been fantastic working with Captain Toothpaste his enthusiasm for Gaelic has been infectious! He’s picked up some great phrases that will help him connect with children in a fun and engaging way. I have no doubt that when he visits schools, the children will love hearing him use Gaelic, and it will encourage them to join in too.”
Captain Toothpaste has an extra motivation for learning Gaelic, as his own child is in Gaelic nursery. He said:
“Learning Gaelic has been a great experience, not just for my visits to schools but also at home. My son is in Gaelic nursery, so being able to use the language together has been really special. It’s amazing to see how naturally young children pick up Gaelic, and I hope my visits will help encourage even more families to use it every day.”
As Captain Toothpaste continues his Gaelic journey, children across the islands can look forward to even more exciting, bilingual visits, ensuring that both their smiles and their Gaelic skills stay strong.
For more information about the Childsmile programme in the Western Isles, please contact:
The Childsmile Office,
The Western Isles Dental Centre
01851 707515
