How to make brushing fun for kids
Do you find it a challenge to get your child to brush their teeth twice a day? For some parents, this task can have the same level of difficulty as getting your child to go to bed. It’s important to explore a variety of ways which can ensure this becomes a fun job for both parent and child; this will not only make everyone’s life easier but also improve your child’s oral health. We’ve outlined some top tips that can help to make the cleaning teeth chore a bit more fun for all.
Choose the right toothbrush
By allowing your child to pick out their own toothbrush, it may encourage them to become excited about using it. Bright, colourful brushes with images of their favourite cartoon characters tend to go down well and are attractive for little ones. You could even try finding a brush which lights up when being used!
Lead by example
A good way to make brushing fun is by letting your child watch you brush your own teeth. This will also allow you to teach them how to thoroughly brush each part of their mouth, asking them to follow your lead at the same time. You could also let your child brush your teeth, which will encourage enthusiasm and fun for all. Using your hand to guide theirs will also provide guidance on how to clean hard to reach areas.
Try using props
In order to encourage your child to become enthusiastic about brushing their teeth, you could include some fun props during the process. Using a 2-minute timer will ensure that they brush for the right amount of time, or even having a handheld mirror to help them see their teeth up close will help them become more aware of the insides of their mouth. You could also try using a radio to play some music, turning a normal routine into a dance routine!
Make use of apps
Your child may be more likely to listen to a cartoon character on an app than their parents, in which case there are a number of downloadable programmes you can use to encourage your child to brush their teeth. Whether it’s a fun timer, video recording, or a dog brushing along with you, there’s a wide range of different apps that can dramatically make a difference to teeth cleaning times.
Offer your child a reward
Another way to make brushing fun is by offering your child small rewards (but not sugary treats!) or incentives if they brush their teeth when and how they should. A rewards chart could be incorporated into your daily routine or you could also offer your child a sticker every time they brush without any complaints.
