Does the thought of your child brushing your teeth bring you or your child a little terror? Perhaps your child screams and cries when you try to brush their teeth. You are not alone. It is an unfamiliar sensation for children, so it is normal if they resist, fight or cry. Keep reading to find 5 ways to make brushing your kid’s teeth fun. Get a FREE toothbrushing chart HERE!
1. Introduce toothbrushing early
Introduce toothbrushing early. This will help make the toothbrush feel normal to your child and you may find that they will enjoy brushing their teeth after. Have two toothbrushes on hand—one you use to brush your child’s teeth, the other you have for them to use.
- While you brush their teeth, have them hold their toothbrush.
- Let them play with the extra toothbrush. They may stick it in their mouths as they do with everything else!
- Any chance you get when they’re in the bathroom, point to the toothbrush and ask them what it is!
2. Brush with your child
How many times have you done or said something, and without any instruction, your mini me is doing the same thing? This works with toothbrushing as well. Brush your own teeth in front of your child or brush alongside them.
- Brush your own teeth in front of your child or brush alongside them. They may be excited to follow in your footsteps and brush their teeth just like you do.
3. Try a different toothpaste
Toothpastes come in different flavors and textures. And maybe your child does not quite like either the flavor or texture of their current toothpaste. You can shop other toothpastes here.
A small change like trying a different toothpaste can make a very big difference.
4. Reward good behavior
Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage your child during brushing, especially as they gain more independence.
Positive reinforcement happens when we encourage good behavior with rewards.
Click here to get FREE copies of the toothbrushing chart and more!
5. Have fun with it!
You and I may brush our teeth at the sink or in the shower, but for kids this can be tough. Get creative with where you brush your child’s teeth, and it may make it a little easier.
- Play their favorite song. There is nothing better than jamming out to music while brushing your teeth.
- Put on their favorite show or let them hold their favorite toy. Distraction is very helpful for getting just a few minutes of stillness to get through toothbrushing.
- Brush in a different location. Perhaps you keep their toothbrush in the kitchen and after meals, they brush at the kitchen sink. This can help remind your child that brushing follows meals, and the change in location can make it a little easier.
Helping your kid brush their teeth can be HARD. But one day, you may find that they fight a little bit less. Keep doing the best you can. Dr. Paris & Dr. Ashly are so proud of you.
