There are plenty of aspects of parenting that are difficult, and can be a struggle to implement in your child’s daily routine. From eating their vegetables, to brushing their teeth, you’ll run into plenty of resistance when trying to get your child to do things that are good for their health. When it comes to getting them to brush their teeth, here are a few ideas to make the process go a little smoother.
Let them pick their own toothbrush
Children like to be involved. They like to know what’s going on and help make decisions concerning their well-being. You may find you have an easier time getting them to brush their teeth if you let them pick out their toothbrush. This gives them a sense of control over the situation. And it also makes it a novelty, if they know they get to brush their teeth with a toothbrush that sports their favorite cartoon character. When letting them select their brush, just make sure that they select a brush that’s the appropriate size for their mouth, and that it has soft bristles.
Use kid toothpaste
Most kids don’t enjoy minty toothpaste. If their toothpaste has a fun flavor, they may be more interested in brushing their teeth. Make sure you select a specific pediatric toothpaste that’s naturally made and naturally flavored. This is another situation where it may be beneficial to let them help you pick it out. It will make the situation more personal and they get to look forward to the fun toothpaste flavor that they picked out.
Brush your teeth together
Lead by example. Make sure that they see that you also brush your teeth on a daily basis. This way they don’t feel like brushing their teeth is an unfair punishment they have to endure. If they see you doing it, and subsequently not throwing a fit whilst doing it, it’ll be easier for them to do it. It can also be a good idea to do it together. They may find it fun if you both pull out your brushes, and do the activity together every morning and night.
You can make oral care fun, and help them establish healthy teeth habits when they’re young. The younger you implement good oral habits, the less you’ll have to fight them as they get older. Get them used to the feel of a toothbrush when they’re young so you don’t have to struggle as much as the need for regular toothbrushing becomes more apparent.