Getting kids to brush their teeth without complaining is not always straightforward, but making fun can turn a daily routine into a happy habit. Kids are more willing to do fun things, so making play and imagination during brushing time can create a lifelong oral care habit. If brushing is made fun rather than a chore, kids look forward to it rather than fearing it. The simplest adjustments to habit, having the right tools, and a pinch of imagination can make all the difference when establishing good habits at an early age.
1. Turn Brushing into a Game
Kids love games, and adding fun to it makes brushing an activity they look forward to. One simple method of getting children to brush longer is by challenging them, e.g., “beat the timer” or “spook the sugar bugs.” With a sand timer, a digital timer, or even a fun brushing app, two minutes speed by in the time it takes to blink an eye. Other children enjoy brushing longer when they can have a story to attach it to, such as imagining that they are superheroes fighting cavity monsters. Making it enjoyable helps in making brushing from a boring task to a delightful morning or evening routine.
2. Let Children Choose Their Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Letting children choose their toothbrush and toothpaste gives them more control over their routine. Toothbrushes are usually found in bright colors, with cartoon characters that they like, or even lights and music to make them more engaging. Similarly, strawberry or bubblegum flavors that are child-friendly make the experience enjoyable. If children are allowed to select the products they will be using, they are more likely to enjoy brushing. Having them shop for their oral care gear makes it a treat and encourages them to brush daily.
3. Make It a Family Activity
Children learn by example, and seeing parents or siblings brush their teeth will encourage them to do the same. Doing it as a family affair engages them and makes brushing a pleasurable family ritual rather than an isolated activity. Brushing teeth while singing songs, dancing around, or even making funny faces in the mirror makes it fun. Others have the same toothbrushes used or establish a reward system whereby everyone receives stickers after brushing properly. The more interactive and fun toothbrushing becomes, the higher the chances of kids adhering to the practice.
4. Take Advantage of Music and Videos
A child’s song or video can make toothbrushing fun and motivate kids to brush for the full two minutes. Some oral care brands and dentists offer brushing songs that demonstrate the process to children. Even some electric toothbrushes feature music that comes built-in so brushing can be a mini dance party. Popular cartoon characters’ videos brushing teeth can also make children desire to copy what is being shown. Kids’ dental offices, like Eastlake Pediatric Dentistry, often recommend that music and visual aids be used during brushing to make it entertaining and educational.
5. Create a Reward System for Healthy Brushing
Kids are drawn to rewards and can make healthy brushing fun and a routine that they’ll want to adhere to. A simple sticker chart where they get a star for every good brushing session can be very motivating. For every number of stars they get, they can earn a small reward, like a bedtime story of their choice or extra playtime. Some parents use special rewards like a “tooth fairy bonus” for brushing regularly. Rewards cause children to be proud of the effort that they make and encourage them to brush daily without reminders.
Conclusion
Brushing need not be a fight each day—making the experience a pleasure imparts healthy habits that can last a lifetime in children. Turning brushing into a game, letting them choose their instruments, and rewarding them with music or incentives gets kids on board with the habit. Encouragement and imagination come a long way in making brushing their teeth an enjoyable activity of the day. The aim is to make children brush their teeth effectively and look forward to brushing their teeth as well. A little bit of fun can do wonders in keeping their smile healthy and bright.
