Despite your best efforts, getting your child to even open their mouth has proved to be impossible, much less brush their teeth. Here are a few tips to make brushing a fun and less stressful routine for both you and your kid:
1. Parents as Role Models
Monkey see, monkey do! Young children like to mimic their parents, so show them the right way to clean as you brush along with them. Parents should also assist their young children in flossing and brushing their teeth thoroughly to remove food debris from hard-to-clean areas. Flossing and brushing daily promotes healthier teeth and gums from a young age.
Related: Keep Teeth in Check
2. Entertain Them While Brushing
A little entertainment goes a long way. Songs from children shows could get your kid to brush away. Your children will be encouraged when they see their peers doing the same thing on TV. Stories are also great for instilling values in children. Parents of young children can pretend to brush their child’s favourite stuffed toy’s teeth and then their child’s teeth. Some children are very responsive to such modelling.
3. Give Them a Choice
Let your children pick their own toothbrush when it’s time for a change. This gives them something to look forward to every three months. Today, there is an assortment of kiddy toothbrushes — from familiar cartoon characters to those in the shape of animals like penguins or cats — that will make toothbrushing a lot more fun. In choosing a toothbrush, make sure it has soft bristles and a head that fits well in the child’s mouth.
If used correctly, manual and electric toothbrushes are equally effective at removal of dental plaque. As most children are unable to brush their teeth well, parents should always do a follow-up brush. Electric toothbrushes with inbuilt timers or dedicated mobile apps that coach and motivate children to brush their teeth correctly through interactive games may be a consideration for older children so that toothbrushing becomes a fun activity for them.
Related:Help Your Child Smile for Life
4. Make the Wash Basin Fun for Kids
According to Early Childhood Australia, children are more motivated to be independent when they’re given opportunities to do things on their own. Use a small stool to allow your child to reach for items with ease. Colour-code toiletries to give children a sense of ownership: children may be more motivated if they have their own set of tumblers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap dispensers and towels in their favourite colour or with their favourite cartoon character.
Related: Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
5. Reward Efforts
Praise your child each time they allow you to brush their teeth to reinforce good behaviour. Create a simple chart with two boxes—one for morning and one for night—and reward them with a star whenever they cooperate. This positive reinforcement can help sustain the behaviour over time, making regular brushing a part of their daily routine.
6. Introduce Friendly Competition
Sometimes, friendly competition can kick-start a lifelong toothbrushing habit. Challenge siblings to see who can brush the most effectively. Use a timer to ensure they’re brushing for about 2 minutes and check for clean, plaque-free teeth afterward. Reward the child who does the best job with points or stickers. You can also offer small prizes or privileges to both of them for reaching the shared goal of brushing their teeth together. If your child has no siblings, they can compete with cousins.
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