Getting your children to brush their teeth can be a pain for both of you, but it’s crucial to prevent tooth decay from an early age. You may recall our previous blog full of tips to make brushing fun for you child. Well, the parents loved it and so did we, so we thought we’d bring you some additional tips to make the process fun for everyone. Here are four more ways to get your kids to brush their teeth without a fuss.
1. Brush with them. Kids look up to you, although they don’t always show it. By brushing your teeth with them, you are making it an activity you do together instead of just another chore. By changing the mindset of tooth-brushing from being a hassle to a family activity, they’ll appreciate the time and fight you a lot less. Plus, it’s a great bonding experience for you with your child! Go even further by getting the whole family to brush together and create a bonding experience for everyone.
2. Keep them distracted and give them incentives. If your child already believes that brushing is family fun, they will be more likely to get the job done without a fuss. So distract them—create a game or a song that keeps them occupied while they brush and they won’t even realize they’ve been brushing for a full two minutes. Create charts and visual aids, or give them a reward if they are filling out a chart every week to keep them on a brushing schedule.
3. Pick a toy. Let your child play with his or her favorite toy while brushing. Maybe it’s her American Doll or his Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle; either way, allowing them to bring along a toy makes it more exciting. Before your child brushes his or her own teeth, have them brush for the toy (preferably without the toothpaste, but have an extra toothbrush for the toy and teach them basics so they can visualize what’s happening).
If it’s a hard doll, add a little dirt to its teeth so they know the difference between clean and dirty teeth. It’s entertaining for both of you and an easy transition to brush their teeth after their toys.
4. Tickle time. Always make sure your kids are having a great time. Again, they should never feel as if brushing their teeth is a chore. Simple things like tickling or making faces while they are brushing makes them enthusiastic and plants the seed early that brushing is a fun activity. Once it becomes routine they will be less likely to fuss and enjoy a long-lasting, healthy smile!
