Just like eating greens and veggies, brushing isn’t always an activity children greet with excitement. In their eyes it’s considered a chore, and what kid wants to do a chore every morning and evening? If you’re worried about your children’s resistance to brushing twice a day, here’s a couple tricks to put the fun into a solid teeth-brushing regimen:
1. Get a fun toothbrush.
Getting your child a toothbrush he or she is excited about can make all the difference. There are plenty of children’s toothbrushes out there made to look like Disney characters, race cars, dinosaurs, and anything your child fancies. Shop together with your child and have him or her pick out their favorite one. This also applies to toothpaste, too!
2. Brush together.
Make brushing a family affair and lead by example. Kids naturally want to be just like mom and dad so show them that brushing twice a day is an important habit to develop healthy teeth and a bright smile.
3. Create a reward system.
Incentivizing your child in a small way could encourage them to brush his or her teeth to help establish good oral habits. Creating a sticker chart for the entire month is a great way to track progress. After a month of stickers and constant brushing, allow your child to pick a prize of their choice.
4. Make a game out of it.
Kids love a good game. Have them sing a song for the recommended two minutes of brushing. Or, better yet, give them a timer to countdown and watch the time. Last, but certainly not least, create a story. “The plaque monsters and sugar bugs will make holes in our teeth if we don’t brush them away!” Create a story, make a countdown, sing a song – find the right combination that works for your child!
5. Compliment your kids.
As with any task you want your child to accomplish, compliment them when they brush well. Praise can go a long way to help a child think positively and develop a good attitude towards a specific task such brushing your teeth.
What other fun tactics have you used to put the excitement into teeth-brushing? We’d love to hear from the momma’s out there! If you have any questions about children orthodontics treatment, contact us today.