Getting your child to follow a healthy dental routine is easier said than done. Kids don’t have the same mindset for hygiene responsibility like us adults. They always have to be reminded when to brush their teeth and explained why they should.
If you’re a parent who’s worried about your child’s dental health, it’s time to offer help to your little one. With the right technique, you can even do it in a fun and hassle-free way. Here are amusing ways to encourage your children to look after their teeth.
1. Brush with your Child
Experts say that children should learn to brush their teeth from the age of two, with assistance from their parents. Good dental hygiene at an early age will fend off plaque, cavities, and many major dental problems they might experience later on in life. A healthy oral hygiene routine includes a full mouth cleaning at least once a day which includes brushing, flossing and using mouthwash.
The best way to teach oral hygiene is to join your child in his brushing routine. Children look up to their parents. This is why leading by example is the best way to teach them proper dental care habits.
Brush your teeth in front of your child and have them brush theirs too. While brushing together show your child good brushing techniques. By teaching them how to brush properly, they will learn to do it on their own.
2. Let Your Kid Pick His Own Toothbrush
It is customary to change toothbrush at least every three months. This is to make sure that the bristles maintain their scrubbing ability and bacteria don’t accumulate in the brush. You can make this a fun experience by letting your kid choose his own toothbrush. You can opt for movie character themed toothbrush or an electric toothbrush that’s known to be a kiddy favourite.
When it comes to choosing toothpastes, make sure that you pick kid-friendly ones that’s not too harsh on the mouth or too minty for the child. Kid-friendly toothpaste often have fruity sweet flavors and are mild to gums.
3. Read Tooth-Related Stories before Bed Time
Instead of reading the usual stories before bed, try finding some tooth related stories for your child. Books and stories are fun ways to teach your children the importance of brushing their teeth. For example, the story about The Tooth Fairy is a great way to motivate your child to keep their teeth beautiful and healthy.
Teach your children that the Tooth Fairy collects teeth that have fallen out and leaves small “presents” in return. If the fairy finds a good healthy looking tooth she will reward them for it. This way your child will feel less anxious about losing their teeth and show interest to nurture them as well.
4. Encourage Your Kid to Dance or Sing While They Brush
Kids love music and dancing. You can include music in your brushing routines to make the moment fun and exciting. You can use their favourite song to make them love brushing time. Allow your child to dance a bit while brushing their teeth to keep it fun for them. They can even sing along with the tune as they brush.
5. Have a Rewards system
Creating a rewards chart is another way to encourage a healthy oral routine in your child. You can reward your child for accomplishments like brushing every day for a week, accumulating 60 minutes of brushing time, flossing by themselves, and remembering to brush their tongue.
Conclusion
With these fun methods your child will learn to see dental hygiene as an enjoyable thing. By allowing them to feel a sense of responsibility and accomplishment you’ll encourage them to follow a dental care routine with enthusiasm.
Featured photo credit: collusor via pixabay.com
