We did something similar with my daughter, but it was “toothbrushing dance party” instead—she’d only cooperate if we played her favorite song and I’d do this goofy dance while she brushed. I totally get worrying it’ll backfire, but honestly, once she hit about six, she just... stopped needing the song and started brushing on her own. Sometimes these rituals just help them get over the initial resistance, you know? I wouldn’t stress too much as long as he’s actually brushing.
Sometimes these rituals just help them get over the initial resistance, you know?
I totally relate to this. I used to freak out about my own dental habits as a kid, and honestly, if someone had made it fun, maybe I wouldn’t have dreaded brushing so much. I get nervous about “crutches” too, but if it works and they’re brushing, I’d call that a win. Kids grow out of stuff on their own timeline.
Yeah, I hear you about the “crutches.” I always worry if I’m making things harder in the long run, but honestly, if a silly song or a timer with flashing lights means my kid actually brushes, I’ll take it. I used to get anxious about doing everything “right,” but sometimes you just need to pick your battles. Plus, those gimmicks don’t really cost much—definitely cheaper than dental bills later. Kids seem to drop these habits eventually, anyway... at least, that’s what I’m hoping for.
Honestly, I think you’re spot on—whatever gets them brushing is better than fighting about it every night. I’ve seen plenty of kids outgrow the “gimmicks” as they get older, so I wouldn’t stress too much about it becoming a crutch. Have you noticed if your kid’s brushing technique actually improves with those timers or songs? Sometimes the fun stuff keeps their focus just long enough to do a decent job, which is half the battle. And yeah, dental bills from cavities are no joke... prevention is way cheaper in the long run.
I’ve noticed the timers and songs actually do help my youngest stay on task, at least for now. It’s like the novelty factor buys us a couple minutes of real focus, which is more than we’d get otherwise. I was skeptical at first—felt a bit like bribery—but as long as he’s actually brushing all his teeth instead of just chewing on the brush, I’ll take it.
That said, technique isn’t perfect. He still misses spots sometimes, especially the back molars. But I figure it’s a work in progress. We’ve tried those plaque-disclosing tablets a few times to show him where he’s missing, and it was kind of eye-opening for both of us. Not sure if that counts as a “game,” but he thought it was wild to see his teeth turn purple.
Totally agree about dental bills. My oldest had a cavity at age six, and I still wince thinking about that bill... Anything that gets them brushing—even if it’s silly—seems worth it compared to the alternative.
