Totally agree with giving them some space. My daughter was exactly the same—every night was like a mini battle. We tried sticker charts, songs, even letting her pick out her own toothbrush at the store. Nothing clicked until we stopped making it a big deal. Once she felt like brushing was her choice, she started doing it without fuss. Kids definitely have their own timing... sometimes less pressure is the best way forward. Glad your nephew got there too!
We’re going through this exact thing right now—my son just clamps his mouth shut every night. I'm worried about cavities, but maybe backing off a bit could help? Still nervous about how long to wait before stepping in again though...
Totally get where you’re coming from—my daughter went through a phase where she’d just refuse to open up for brushing, and I was convinced she’d end up with a mouthful of cavities. It stressed me out way more than it probably should have. We actually did try backing off a little, just to take the pressure off, and it weirdly helped. I’d let her hold the toothbrush or just play with it, even if she wasn’t really brushing. Some nights we just did a quick swipe and called it good.
I know it feels risky, but honestly, fighting every night was making us both miserable. After a week or two of being more relaxed, she started letting me help again, little by little. I’d say don’t wait too long, but a short break might give both of you a reset. Maybe just keep an eye out for any changes in his teeth, but don’t beat yourself up if every brushing isn’t perfect. Kids are weirdly resilient—sometimes you just have to pick your battles.
Man, I swear my son could sense when it was toothbrush time—he’d clamp his mouth shut like a tiny alligator. I finally just let him brush my teeth for “practice” and, weirdly, that made him more willing to let me near his. Kids are wild.
That’s hilarious—my daughter used to do the same thing. She’d turn into a statue when she saw the toothbrush coming. Letting her “help” with my braces cleaning got her curious, though, and now she actually reminds me when it’s time. Kids really do keep you guessing...
