It's time for bed and you are dreading teeth brushing because you know it will be a struggle, the pursed lips, turning away, maybe even a tantrum, you know it's important so you quickly hold your child and brush their teeth for them-but there has to be a better way! Teeth brushing for young children (and older children) is often a source of frustration, so here are some tips for helping with this important self care activity.
Encourage independent exploration with the toothbrush and praise your child for bringing it to their mouth.
Make it fun! Singing a song along with the activity can help get your child engaged (some of the best songs are made up!) (see links below for songs on brushing teeth).
Read books about brushing teeth to aid in familiarity to the activity (see links below for recommendations)
Be consistent! Incorporating into your everyday routines so your child comes to expect the activity at certain times and also gets lots of practice!
For older children
Using a colorful timer or brushing along to a favorite song can help increase the duration of brushing teeth.
Bring your child with to the store to pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste, it gives them a sense of ownership that they chose the materials themselves!
If your child is struggling quite a bit with teeth brushing, you can try using a behavioral chart with stickers to earn a preferred activity/reward.
Books for young children on brushing teeth
This book is a pop-up
This book is also a pop up book with Sesame street characters!
This one is fun and includes singing by the wiggles :)
Songs for Brushing teeth
Animated tooth brushing song with fun monsters
Blippy toothbrushing song
Mickey Mouse toothbrushing song