03 Jun Fun Ways To Teach Your Kids To Brush Their Teeth
Fun Ways To Teach Your Kids To Brush Their Teeth
It is incredibly important to help your young children establish a healthy oral hygiene routine. But too often, this important practice starts feeling like work to kids. So here are some fun ways that you can help instill healthy dental practices in your child so that they maintain their teeth and beautiful smiles into adulthood.
Make It a Game
Take advantage of the fact that kids love games by encouraging them into developing a brushing habit by making it into a game. If you do your job well, they may even look forward to it when the time arrives every morning and evening. Dentists recommend that children brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes per session.
- Play music: Play some of your child’s favorite tunes, and let them dance to the beat while they brush their teeth.
- Brush during commercials: If your child is allowed to watch TV before going to bed, let them brush during a commercial break, which should give them at least two minutes to brush their teeth without missing out on their favorite show or movie.
- Copycat game: Brush your own teeth alongside your child by playing the “copycat” game. Start moving your toothbrush over your teeth, and encourage your child to mimic you. Bonus points by making funny faces or opening your mouth to show all the foamy toothpaste on your teeth!
Role Play
Another way to make your child’s brushing time fun is to play “dentist” at home. Find a stuffed animal and pretend to brush around its mouth in small, circular motions. You could even take turns brushing each other’s teeth.
This type of role-playing can have an added benefit: getting your child more comfortable when visiting the dentist so that they are less likely to develop anxiety around their dental appointments.
Let Them Choose Their Toothbrush
There are quite a few toothbrushes and toothpaste brands that are specifically geared toward children. From cartoon characters to beloved animals, there is a toothbrush for everyone. Make it a fun experience for them by taking them to the store with you to make their choice.
There are also a variety of toothpaste flavors, like berry flavor and bubblegum. You could even let them pick two different types so that they can have a choice when they get bored with one.
It never hurts to reward your child for keeping their commitment to daily toothbrushing. You could print out or purchase a monthly calendar and buy a set of fun stickers. After they have met their goal, you can reward them by letting them put a sticker on their toothbrushing calendar. An entire month of success can bring a reward of a new treat or toy.