Guiding LIGHT
A Plunket nurse shares the joy of protecting NZ's precious smiles
When you ask Alice Dalzell what she likes most about being a Plunket nurse, she says it’s being in the invaluable position of making positive change. “Like a lighthouse on the coast, we’re always present, trying to help families along,” she says.
On a day-to-day level, that positive change starts by making meaningful connections with parents and wha¯nau, and supporting them on their parenting journey.
“I try to be as human as possible and spend time celebrating their child and their journey,” Alice explains. “We’re all learning something new each day, so I spend a lot of my time empowering parents on their knowledge and intuition, and building from there.”
Alice says that once parents are given essential tools and support they flourish, and in turn, so do their children.
“It is incredibly inspiring and humbling. I honestly cannot think of anything more rewarding than being a nurse where your input has a lifelong effect on the next generation,” enthuses Alice. “This is how I overcome the challenges I face, knowing I am part of that positive change.”
Alice counts herself lucky to see the true reality of family life.
“Sometimes I bear witness to families who have been given the worst draw that life could give you, yet with each small gem of information, encouragement and reassurance, you watch as the health of the child and wha¯nau thrives,” she says. “Many families will have heard me say this, but this is where the true superheroes live!”
Part of Alice’s role involves teaching parents how to take care of their baby’s teeth as soon as they appear.
“Did you know baby teeth are essential for chewing and speech development?” reveals Alice. “They also save space for the adult teeth in years to come, which further supports the growth and shape of the face and jaw. Baby teeth are the bee’s knees!”
From about five months of age,
Plunket begins ‘Talking Teeth’, which is a great opportunity to recommend suitable oral health tips, certified by the New Zealand Dental Association. Parents are also gifted a Colgate toothbrush and toothpaste.
“Their faces light up to the idea of ‘baby’s very first toothbrush!’ It is such a positive way to talk about oral health and the parents are also very appreciative,” Alice says. “By the end of the visit, half of those Colgate toothbrushes end up in the baby’s mouth, parents busily practising the healthy habits of brushing.”