Getting kids to make healthy habits isn’t easy. There are plenty of whines and sighs that come when it’s time to do their chores and make nutritious choices. Brushing their teeth is no different. When reminding them doesn’t work so well, and nagging them isn’t doing the job, you have to get creative and a little sneaky to make them choose this healthy habit.
If you’ve run out of ideas, have no fear. Here are some ways to make it easier when it comes to getting them to brush their teeth.
1. Let them Pick the Essentials
Kids have a distinct ability to pick up on when they’re being coerced into a chore or habit. Instead of telling them every material they’re going to use, let them take the reins and choose their toothpaste and toothbrush. Go to the store and let them pick out what they like.
2. Chart it
Children love to see how far they’ve come in an activity. When it comes to brushing their teeth, think about a way you can place a chart near them so they can see how often they’re brushing. Let them fill out the chart and give them a short goal to achieve. For example, brush seven days in a row without any prompting from a parent.
3. All Together Now
You know that it’s important that you set a good example for your child. Showing how you brush your teeth regularly is no different. Make it a routine to brush your teeth together and stand beside each other at the sink. Doing this habit together is seen like a family activity. They’ll feel grown up standing beside you, too.
4. Brush to the Beat of their Favorite Song
Make brushing time a fun activity with their favorite music! Instead of showing your exasperation when it’s time to get your child to brush their teeth, make it enjoyable. Turn on one of their favorite songs and challenge them to have their teeth clean before the end.
5. Make it a Contest
Kids love contests. When it comes to habits and chores, it’s no different. If you have multiple kids in the house, get everyone to join in for a teeth-brushing contest. The person who cleans their teeth the most consistently get a prize at the end of the month.
Even though getting kids to brush their teeth can be tough, there are different ways to make this healthy habit fun and enjoyable. Places like Paramount Dentistry can make these great habits the type of behaviors that make kids healthy throughout their life.