Have you tried turning brushing into a mini-game or challenge instead? We had the same issue—
—so we started using a simple timer app with fun animations. It tracks their brushing streaks, and they get little virtual badges after a few days. Honestly, it's surprising how much kids love collecting digital stickers...and bonus, it's free and doesn't clutter up the bathroom drawer. Might be worth a shot?"the novelty wore off and we were back to square one"
Haha, digital stickers—wish we'd had those back in my day! My parents used the good old-fashioned bribery method: a sticker chart taped to the fridge and the promise of ice cream if we filled it up. Worked like a charm...until my brother figured out he could sneak extra stickers when no one was looking. 🙄
Honestly though, the app idea sounds pretty clever. My grandkids visited last summer and we had a similar battle every night. I tried singing silly songs, but apparently my rendition of "Brush Your Teeth" isn't Grammy-worthy. Might have to give this animated timer thing a whirl next time they're here. If it saves me from another round of off-key singing and toothpaste splatter, I'm all in.
Digital stickers seem fun, but honestly, nothing beats good old-fashioned bribery. I remember trying everything to get my daughter to brush longer—songs, timers, even fancy toothbrushes that lit up. Nothing worked until I promised we'd read an extra bedtime story if she brushed properly. Worked great for a while...then she started bargaining—two stories for flossing too! Kids catch on quick, don't they? Anyway, that app timer sounds interesting, might help ease my anxiety about cavities next time the grandkids stay over.
Bribery definitely has its moments, haha. But honestly, I've found turning brushing into a family thing worked wonders for us. My son used to dread it until we started brushing together—making silly faces in the mirror, racing to see who could get the most bubbles... Suddenly it was less chore, more goofy bonding moment. Maybe try something like that with your grandkids next time they're over? Might ease your anxiety too if you're right there brushing alongside them.
We did something similar with our kids, though admittedly less creative, haha. When money was tight, we couldn't really justify fancy toothbrushes or special toothpastes, so we had to get a bit inventive. I remember one time we made up these goofy "tooth brushing Olympics"—timing each other to see who could brush the longest without laughing (spoiler: no one ever won that one!). It was silly, but it worked surprisingly well. Kids forgot they were doing something they hated and just enjoyed the game.
Your idea of brushing together is great though—wish we'd thought of that back then. Curious if anyone has found budget-friendly toothbrushes or toothpaste flavors their kids actually like? We've tried some cheaper fruity ones but they always taste kinda weird...
