Toothbrushing is probably my least favorite ADL. Most kids don’t enjoy it and I don’t blame them! But, there are tips to make toothbrushing a little easier for them!
Introduce a tooth brush early on
Our babies and toddlers are constantly looking for something to put in their mouth. Why not make it bristled? Introducing the toothbrush early on will allow the child to become familiar with the item and decrease the fear of it going into their mouth.
The Banana nubby is a great option. The bristles massage the gums, decrease any sensitivities, and is an excellent tool to help the child safely explore their mouth. Did you know that when we are born, our gag reflex is triggered fairly close to the front of the tongue? This allows for protection against choking. As babies explore orally, it is pushed back further which allows a child to tolerate silverware, straws, and toothbrushes.
Make it a Family Affair
Brush your teeth at the same time as your child. It will give them a feeling of independence while you are modeling the sequence of applying the toothpaste and where to brush. Have fun with it and they will too.
Engage in Pretend Play
For our toddlers, preschooler and gradeschool kids, engaging in pretend play schemes is an incredible way to learn a new skill, work through any anxiety, and practice independence. It provides the child with opportunity for control and can allow them to practice their skills in a low stress environment.
I love the Crocodile Dentist for this activity. Use a dry erase marker and draw on some germs to each tooth. Use a real toothbrush (minus the toothpaste), and scrub away!
Is The Child Sensitive To Textures and Tastes?
Toothpaste can be VERY overwhelming. Big flavors and lots of foam. I’ll be honest, the thought of it just grosses me out. I often will recommend a family use a natural toothpaste. They typically do not foam and have milder flavors. If your child has a flavor they love, look for that one. Personally, I love Davids, but for kids try Toms or Hello.
Don’t forget to only put a small amount of toothpaste on the brush! A little goes a long way.
Does The Child Rush Through the Task?
Brushing for 2 minutes is the rule, but most kids last about 15 seconds before they are over it. How do we extend the task?
Use a timer: A visual help them understand there is a beginning and an end.
Find a toothbrushing app: I love Brusheez. A little monster brushes their teether along with you. It has a timer built in where you pick the length of brushing and watch a visual to see exactly where the toothbrush needs to be to ensure the child is hitting all the spots.
Play a song: Most kids songs are around about 2 minutes long. Pick a favorite and get brushing.
Use a Vibrating Toothbrush
The novelty of a vibrating toothbrush may motivate the child enough to engage in the task more frequently. Bonus, electric toothbrushes often remove more plaque and get teeth cleaner. Especially when our kids aren’t excellent at brushing accuracy, this will help keep cavities away.
Find What Motivates Them!
Allow the child to pick out their favorite toothbrush. Add that Paw Patrol sticker to the toothpaste container. Use a Batman toothbrush holder.
What toothbrushing tips do you have??
Recommended Blog Posts:
