Caregivers’ views on childcare staff’s role in promoting children’s oral health

Parents have limited awareness of what oral health activities occur in EYS. They acknowledge that EYS staff can influence children's oral health behaviours, yet also report communication barriers with EYS staff. Early years communication is primarily uni-directional, which shapes parents' views about EYS staff's responsibility and credibility to support their children's oral health. To overcome these barriers, staff need training and support to effectively engage parents.