Haha, the home practice run is a great idea—kids love playing dentist, especially if they get to be the one checking YOUR teeth. I've also found that letting them bring along a favorite stuffed animal or toy can help. One kiddo I know insists on bringing his dinosaur because "dinosaurs aren't scared of anything." Do your kids have a comfort item they usually take along?
"dinosaurs aren't scared of anything."
Haha, that's cute...wish I'd thought of something like that when I was younger. Honestly, I still get nervous about dentist visits myself—maybe I should bring my own dinosaur next time? Curious though, does bringing a toy really make a big difference for kids? I never had a comfort item growing up, so I'm wondering if it genuinely helps ease anxiety or if it's more of a distraction thing.