5 Easy Ways to Get Your Kids to Brush and Floss

Oral hygiene. To kids, it can seem like more of a chore than their actual chores. Even though it takes just a few minutes each day, most kids would rather brush off brushing and flossing their teeth. But with a few simple tips, you can give your kids a reason to smile when it comes to their dental habits.

Brush and floss with them.

Your kids look up to you, and often times they model their behaviors after yours. By demonstrating how to brush and floss, your kids will apply the same techniques to their own teeth. Link your routine to theirs in the morning and at night. And while you brush and floss, explain what you’re doing and how to do it correctly.

Make up games and stories.

There are lots of ways to make brushing and flossing an entertaining time, like creating a game with your routines. Have a contest with your kids to see who can create the most bubbles while brushing. Or, make up stories that interest your kids. Position plaque and bacteria as evil villains, and tell how the toothbrush and floss must defeat them.

Let them pick out accessories.

One simple way to pique your kid’s interest in dental health is to let them choose their own toothpaste, toothbrush and floss. Children’s toothpaste comes in an array of flavors and varieties. Let them pick out a few different ones that they can test out. They’ll get excited about the purchase, as well as the brushing and flossing they’ll do later.

Use electric toothbrushes.

Electric toothbrushes can turn the tooth-brushing experience into an electrifyingly fun time. Electric toothbrushes are fun for kids and will get them excited for their morning and bedtime routines. If you choose to purchase a traditional toothbrush instead of an electric one, find a brush with your child’s favorite color or cartoon character, or one that plays songs.

Set goals and give rewards.

Use a chart to keep track of your kid’s brushing and flossing. Not only will it constantly remind them to brush and floss, it’ll teach them responsibility and self-motivation, too. You can give them small rewards as incentives, like stickers every week, or even a new toy if they have a good month.

 

Use these tips today, and eliminate brushing and flossing from your child’s chore list.