Making brushing fun shouldn’t feel like a daily showdown. But between sleepy mornings and distracted bedtimes, it can be tough to get those two minutes in without a little resistance.
The good news? Brushing doesn’t have to be boring or a battle. With a few creative strategies, you can make brushing fun and turn this everyday task into something your child actually looks forward to.
At Sumner Pediatric Dentistry, we love helping parents find simple, playful ways to build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
1. Make It a Team Effort
Kids learn best by example. Brush your teeth together; it turns a routine into shared time rather than a chore.
- Let your child “teach” you how to brush, then switch roles.
- Mirror each other in the bathroom mirror.
- End with a high-five or silly grin check.
When brushing feels like family time, kids are more likely to do it willingly (and correctly).
2. Give Them a Say
Giving kids choices helps them feel in control. Try letting them:
- Pick their toothbrush color or favorite character.
- Choose a toothpaste flavor: bubblegum, strawberry, or mint.
- Decide which song or timer they want for brushing time.
A little autonomy can go a long way toward enthusiasm.
3. Add Music or Games
Brushing for two minutes can feel like forever to a child. Make it fly by with:
- Songs: Play a 2-minute brushing song or a track they love. (There are tons of kid-friendly brushing playlists on Spotify and YouTube.)
- Apps: Try free dental hygiene apps with animations or reward systems that guide kids through brushing.
- Challenges: Who can make the most foam? Who can brush every “sugar bug” first?
Turning brushing into a game keeps your child engaged and their teeth cleaner.
4. Use Rewards the Right Way
Positive reinforcement helps habits stick. Keep it simple and consistent:
- A sticker chart for every completed brushing session.
- A small weekly prize or privilege for brushing twice a day all week.
- Praise and encouragement every time they do it without reminders.
The goal isn’t bribery, it’s helping kids associate brushing with success and self-care.
5. Make It a Story
Turn brushing into a mini adventure. For example:
- “Let’s scrub away the sugar monsters hiding behind your molars!”
- “Super Toothbrush to the rescue! Time to protect the kingdom of Clean Teeth!”
You can even name the toothbrush or pretend the toothpaste gives them “superhero sparkle powers.”
Kids live in stories, so bring brushing into that world.
6. Keep It Consistent (and Calm)
Even the most fun routine works best when it’s predictable. Brush at the same times every day — after breakfast and before bed — so it becomes automatic.
If your child refuses, stay calm. Avoid power struggles or scolding. Consistency and patience win over time, especially when brushing stays lighthearted.
When to Ask for Help
If brushing battles are constant or your child struggles with sensory discomfort, let your pediatric dentist know. We can offer tailored tips, recommend toothbrushes designed for sensitive mouths, and make brushing feel easier for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Making brushing fun isn’t just about getting clean teeth; it’s about teaching lifelong habits with positivity and patience.
A few songs, stories, and smiles can transform brushing from a struggle into something your child enjoys (and maybe even reminds you to do).
At SPD, we’re here to cheer on every win. One sparkle, giggle, and clean tooth at a time. 💙
