Getting children excited about dental hygiene shouldn’t be a chore. Dental health should be a priority for people of any age, but for young children, it’s especially important. Setting a good foundation for dental health for your children and sustaining this habit can carry over to when they’re older. As with anything else, the more fun you can make it, the more likely they’re going to brush their teeth. Here are 10 ways to make brushing teeth fun for your child:
1. Play Games
Turn brushing into a game by making up a story that turns your child and their toothbrush into a superhero. They can battle evil tooth or cavity monsters by using their toothbrush-shaped light saber to destroy them. (Just make sure your child doesn’t overdo it by brushing too vigorously!)
2. Reward System
Let your child choose a sticker to place on a reward chart every time they brush their teeth and let them trade it in for an inexpensive treat when the chart is filled up. Choosing a bedtime story can also make a good incentive.
3. Toothbrush Puppet Show
Here's an exciting spin on the "practice" tip - create a puppet show with their toothbrush as the protagonist! Have the toothbrush show how it cleans each tooth, singing and dancing its way through a healthy mouth. It’s a fun way to help kids visualize the process, and they'll be more likely to want to join in the action.
4. Music and Dancing
Play a song your child loves and that lasts for close to two minutes to help time their brushing and to make it more fun. Join your child in a happy dance as the music plays. You can also make up a tooth-brushing song or change the lyrics of a favorite song or TV show theme to talk about tooth brushing.
5. Choose Eco-friendly Dental Products
Introduce your children to Brush Club's bamboo toothbrushes and biodegradable floss. Our brushes provide a blank canvas, encouraging their creativity while taking care of their teeth. They can draw, write, or simply leave it natural — it's their toothbrush, their way! Plus, it's a great opportunity to start a conversation about sustainability and caring for our planet.
6. Download an App
Download a kid-friendly app like BrushDJ, which plays two minutes of music to help your child time how long they need to brush. Or try the Star Teeth app, which lets kids select a character to provide encouragement as they brush.
7. Create a Brushing Tooth Diary
Let your child be the author of their brushing adventure with a "Tooth Diary." They can draw or write about their brushing experiences each day, creating a fun and educational keepsake. Plus, it's an excellent way for them to track their progress and achievements in dental hygiene!
8. Establish a Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to good dental habits. By setting a regular brushing and flossing schedule, your child will know what to expect and be more likely to stick with it.
9. Mirror Fun
Who doesn't love making funny faces? Let your child make goofy faces in the mirror while they brush. They can see exactly where they're brushing, and it's a great way to keep the mood light and fun!
10. Brush Together
Make dental care a family affair. When your child sees you brushing and flossing, they understand the importance of these habits. Plus, it's a great opportunity for bonding and learning together.
Teaching your child healthy dental habits doesn't have to be a struggle. With these fun and creative tips, your child will be looking forward to brushing and flossing in no time! And remember, regular check-ups at your family dentist are also an essential part of dental care. Happy brushing!