It is not always easy getting kids to understand why brushing their teeth is important. Some parents have a tough time getting their younger children anywhere near a toothbrush, let alone getting them to brush on a regular basis.
Related: What is in Your Child’s Lunchbox?
For one thing, it can be tricky explaining to a small child why brushing is so important. The obvious strategy is to use scare tactics, telling kids that their teeth will rot or fall out if they do not brush regularly. Other parents may turn to punishing their child if they do not brush. Neither of these methods are very effective if your goal is to help instill a long-term habit in your kids.
Most parents find it easier to simply entice kids to brush their teeth rather than trying to explain why it is important. This actually works in many cases to get kids more focused on brushing every morning and every night. Below are 3 ways you can entice your kids to brush, helping them to develop a daily habit:
1. Set the example – Brush with your kids.
The longer you are a parent, the more you realize just how closely your kids are watching you. Not only do they watch every move you make, they emulate your actions, your words, and your styles. Use this to your advantage when it comes to brushing. Take a few minutes to brush your teeth at the same time and same place as your kids do. This is a great chance to teach them how to put the toothpaste on correctly and how long to brush for. Besides, what could be more fun for a kid than brushing their teeth alongside their mom or dad? You will find this is a great way to teach by example and keep everyone’s teeth clean at the same time.
Related: Hard vs. Soft Toothbrush.
2. Find a cool toothbrush and some yummy toothpaste.
Letting your kids pick out their own toothbrush and pairing it with some flavorful toothpaste is a great way to entice your children to brush on a regular basis. Keep in mind that, at this stage, it is more about establishing a routine and building a habit and not necessarily about your children having an in depth understanding of why they are brushing. Let them choose a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character or comic book hero. This will absolutely keep them interested. Use toothpaste flavors that they like instead of making them use what you are used to. Using the right stuff can make brushing time more enjoyable for your kids.
3. Be sure to make it fun.
Anytime you can make brushing time fun, you are definitely making it more enticing for your kids. This could include a routine both before and after the actual brushing or maybe even a favorite song that you sing or listen to while brushing. You know your kids best, so choose something that they will enjoy and keep them coming back every day for brushing.
For more tips on helping your kids keep their teeth and gums healthy, feel free to give our office a call at 480-951-2800.
