Getting toddlers and young children to brush their teeth isn’t always easy. Many parents know the struggle of chasing a reluctant child around the bathroom or trying to persuade them to brush for the full two minutes!
The good news is that a few simple tricks can make toothbrushing more enjoyable and help build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Let Them Choose Their Own Toothbrush
Children love having a say in things, and choosing their own toothbrush can make brushing feel much more exciting.
Whether it’s a favourite colour, cartoon character, superhero, or animal-themed brush, allowing your child to pick their own toothbrush can help them feel involved and more enthusiastic about using it.
You could even let them choose their toothpaste flavour too, as long as it contains the recommended amount of fluoride for their age.
Make Brushing Fun with a Toothbrushing Song
Two minutes can feel like a very long time for a young child. Playing a fun toothbrushing song can help the time pass more quickly and encourage them to brush for the recommended length of time.
There are lots of toothbrushing songs and videos available on YouTube that are specifically designed for children. Many include fun characters, dancing, and simple instructions that make brushing feel like a game rather than a chore.
Try letting your child choose their favourite brushing song and make it part of their daily routine.
Create a Reward Chart
Reward charts can be a great way to motivate young children and celebrate their efforts.
Each time your child brushes their teeth well, they can earn a sticker, star, or tick on their chart. After collecting a certain number, they can receive a small reward such as:
The focus should be on praising the effort and building positive habits rather than making brushing feel like a punishment.
Brush Together
Children learn by copying adults. Brushing your teeth alongside your child shows them that brushing is a normal and important part of everyday life.
Turn it into a family activity by brushing together in front of the mirror and showing them how you clean all your teeth.
Use Positive Praise
A little encouragement goes a long way. Praise your child for trying, even if they aren’t perfect at brushing yet.
Simple comments such as “Great brushing!” or “You’re doing such a good job looking after your teeth!” can help boost their confidence and make them more willing to brush again tomorrow.
Let Them Have a Turn First
Many children enjoy feeling independent. Let your child brush their own teeth first before you help them finish the job.
This allows them to practise their brushing skills while ensuring their teeth are properly cleaned.
Keep a Consistent Routine
Children thrive on routine. Brushing at the same times every day—usually once in the morning and once before bed—helps make it an expected part of daily life.
The more consistent the routine, the less likely brushing becomes a battle.
Remember: Parents Still Need to Help
While it’s important to encourage independence, most young children do not have the dexterity to clean their teeth effectively on their own.
Parents should supervise brushing and help clean their child’s teeth thoroughly, especially before bedtime.
Building Healthy Habits for Life
Good oral health habits start early. By making toothbrushing fun, positive, and part of a daily routine, you can help your child develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come.
A fun toothbrush, a favourite brushing song, and a simple reward chart can make a big difference in turning toothbrushing from a struggle into a success.
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