Marcus Brushes His Teeth
Marcus learns why brushing his teeth before bed is important and discovers he can do it like a strong dinosaur. This story explains the purpose of brushing teeth and makes bedtime dental care feel like an exciting part of the day.
Free to read and print — no account required
Read the Story
9 pages · 7 min read read
Show text
Read the Story
9 pages · 7 min read read
My name is Marcus, and I like dinosaurs. Before I go to bed each night, I brush my teeth. Brushing my teeth helps keep them strong and healthy, just like a mighty dinosaur!
When I eat food during the day, tiny germs and food bits stick to my teeth. These germs are called plaque. Brushing my teeth washes them away so my teeth stay healthy and clean.
At bedtime, I walk to the bathroom. I climb onto my step stool so I can reach the sink easily. The step stool helps me get high enough to see in the mirror.
I pick up my dinosaur toothbrush. The toothbrush has soft bristles that are gentle on my teeth. I put a tiny bit of toothpaste on the bristles—only as big as a small pea.
I turn on the water to make it warm and wet. The water feels nice on my hands. I dip my toothbrush in the water so the bristles get wet. Then I'm ready to brush!
Now I brush all parts of my teeth. I brush the tops of my teeth, the sides, and the back. I move my toothbrush gently back and forth. I brush like a dinosaur stomping across the land—strong and steady!
I brush for about two minutes. I can count to ten three times to know when two minutes is done. First ten, second ten, third ten—and I'm finished brushing!
I rinse my mouth with water by taking small sips and swishing. I spit the water back into the sink. I rinse my toothbrush under the water and put it back in its holder. My teeth are now clean!
Brushing my teeth before bed is an important part of my bedtime routine. My teeth stay strong and healthy when I brush them. I feel good knowing my teeth are clean and ready for sleep!
Social Story Methodology
Why This Story Works
Marcus Brushes His Teeth uses Carol Gray's concrete, step-by-step approach to make a routine that can feel overwhelming or abstract become predictable and manageable. By pairing the task with Marcus's dinosaur interest and breaking each action into small, sensory-aware steps (feeling the warm water, counting to ten, gentle back-and-forth motions), the story helps children with autism and anxiety understand not just what to do, but why it matters and what to expect at each stage.
Story Structure
How It's Written
Sentence Types
Voice & Perspective
Story Structure
Practical Guidance
Ways to Use This Story
Practice with the Step Stool First
Use Counting Instead of a Timer
Take Photos of Each Step
Connect to Your Child's Special Interest
Celebrate the 'Feeling Good' Moment
Want this story made just for your child?
Create a version with your child's name, appearance, and the specific details only they face — in minutes.
from $2.99 · no subscription · pay per story
More Daily Routines Stories
Free to read and print
Helping Dad With Chores
Liam learns why helping with household chores matters and discovers how his contributions make a real difference to his family. Through a specific Saturday morning scenario, he sees the connection between his actions and the comfort of his home, and learns a coping strategy to manage frustration.
Washing Hands Before Eating
Marcus learns why washing his hands before eating is important by discovering how invisible germs can affect his body. Through a fun superhero-themed adventure, he discovers that handwashing is his superpower for staying healthy.
Using the Bathroom at Preschool
Aisha learns the steps for using the bathroom independently at preschool, with support from her teacher Ms. Rodriguez. This story helps her understand the routine and build confidence.