How to Create a Teeth Brushing Habit for Kids

As parents we often struggle to find ways to keep our children motivated to brush their teeth. Here you will find some simple steps to make teeth brushing fun.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Kids, toothbrush, toothpaste, cd player, paper, stickers

1. 
    
   Toothbrush and Toothpaste Set

   Allow your child to pick out their toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and floss. They will be more enthusiastic if it is something they have chosen for themselves.

2. 
    
   Cd Player

   Help your child pick out a favorite song, make that song their official teeth brushing song. Only play the song while they are brushing so that they have something to look forward to when its time to brush.

3. 
    
   Brushing Together

   Brush together, it will allow children to observe and mimic your brushing habits. Children love to do what mom and dad are doing, if you brush as a team it will seem more interactive and like less of a chore.

4. 
    
   Tooth Brushing Chart

   Help your child create a chart to mark their progress on. Allow them to decorate and embellish their chart, however they want to help create ownership. Hang it on the wall in the bathroom and let them mark it with stickers to show their accomplishment for the day. Reward them at the end of the week for perfect teeth brushing attendance.

Tips & Warnings

• The song your child picks should be between 2-4 minutes long, if you can’t find a song that fits that time frame pick two.
• No CD player, you can use a timer to assure your child brushes for the correct amount of time.
• Assure the toothbrush your child picks is appropriate for your Childs age.
• Toothpaste should also be checked for age requirements as it can be harmful for your child to swallow too much fluoride.

Resources

• Tips for brushing
• Video on brushing
• About brushing a Childs Teeth

[jaylynrichards]

on 6/26/2009 The teeth brushing song is so cute, what a fun idea.

[3-Point]

on 3/20/2009 I'm going to forward this one to my daughter. We have a bit of a problem getting my 2 year old granddaughter to brush her teeth. Thanks 5*

[consignmentchic]

on 3/18/2009 What great ideas to help the little ones along! THANKS! 5* Recommended ya!

[jenng]

on 2/23/2009 Great tips 5* and recommended

[geeknerdiness]

on 2/18/2009 Great tips! I let my toddler brush his teeth and he absolutely loves it. I'll try adding the song to make it even more fun! 5*