Teaching kids to take care of their teeth is one of the best lessons you can pass on as a parent. Not only does this prepare your child for a lifetime of healthy smiles, but it also saves you years of fighting down the road. Since most kids aren’t naturally inclined to brush their teeth, you need to do something to make this fun an exciting for them. Here is a guide showing how to make teeth brushing fun for kids.
Turn Those Teeth Into Musical Instruments
Chances are you are going to have to get a little creative to make your kids excited about brushing their teeth. One way to do that is to tell them that they are making music, not brushing their teeth. You may even hum a little song while you brush your teeth with your children, having them brush to a certain beat. Your child will gladly play the little violins in his mouth, and all the while, he’ll be getting rid of plaque and tartar buildup.
Make Your Child A Plaque-Fighting Super Hero
As an alternative to the musical instrument idea, you could make up a story about the monsters lurking in your child’s mouth. Your kid can be the super hero that scrubs away the evil villains and makes Tooth Town clean and safe again. You don’t necessarily have to lie to your children. Just give them an idea to let their imaginations run wild. They will take care of the rest.
Give Your Child Some Oral Hygiene Responsibilities
Perhaps all your child needs to get excited about brushing his teeth is a sense of power over the decision. By letting your child choose his own toothbrush or toothpaste, you will make him feel like he is in charge of the process. This is kind of like letting your child pick out a bedspread so he’s willing to make his bed in the morning. A little bit of responsibility can help kids see acts in a whole new light.
Have Fun When You Brush Your Teeth
The only way your child will truly be excited about brushing his teeth is if you are excited about it too. Start changing your attitude about oral health, and put yourself on a twice daily tooth brushing schedule. Let your kid see you brushing your teeth, or better yet, have him brush his right along with you. Have a contest to see who can get their mouth the cleanest, and you’ll be good to go.
