5 top tooth brushing tips for tots
Get your tot into the hang of things with these tips for pearly whites.
27 October 2015
Camilla Rankin
(iStock)
#1 SING A SONG
Most children love a silly song, so don't be shy make one up about brushing teeth! Use the tune of your toddler's favourite song or nursery rhyme and get creative. Toddlers love silly words and actions- the funnier the better. Sing the same song every tooth brushing time, as toddlers also thrive on routine and predictability. It can also help to calm her if a tantrum is about to erupt.
#2 MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL
Toddlers love to look at themselves, so have your child face the bathroom mirror, toothbrush in hand. Not only will she be distracted by her own reflection, she will also be able to see what's going on.
#3 TAKE TURNS
Let your toddler have a turn to brush your teeth first. Giggle and laugh while she is doing it so that she can see how fun it can be. Then take your turn to brush yours. Two-year-olds also love being independent, so you could also let her have a go at brushing her own teeth first. When she is finished, you can give her teeth a quick once-over, maybe even letting her hold the brush with you.
#4 COPY CAT
Toddlers often copy their parents, so get your own toothbrush for your little one when it's brushing time and let her watch you brush your teeth. Show her through your smiles and actions and how fun it is. Most toddlers will want to have a go at brushing teeth just like Mom or Dad.
#5 GET SILLY
Look in your child's mouth and tell her you can see something in there that she'll find funny: mashed potatoes, pumpkins, sugar bugs, ect. Be silly about it, saying, "We'd better get those giant tomatoes out of your teeth!" Your silliness will distract her enough for you to get in there and scrub those pearly whites. You could also get your child to growl like a lion while you brush the front teeth and open wide like a hippo to get to those back teeth. make it fun!
