by Sas Freeman

Created on: November 19, 2008

Toddlers are naturally busy little people. They want to run and play, explore the world, and only have help when they want it. So, when it comes to brushing their teeth, they just do not have time for it. Brushing teeth means that they have to stop playing, even for a few minutes. On the bright side, toddlers want to be like mom and dad so they will take time out to watch.

When you go into the bathroom to do your morning routine, leave the door open, and let your toddler see. If the toddler is watching, explain what you are doing. "I am brushing my hair to make it look pretty. Let's brush your hair too." "Mommy needs to brush her teeth to make them white. Do you want to brush yours?" A yes or no will depend on the child's interest in what you are doing. Keep asking every morning. Toddlers will pick up on a routine and come to expect it. They may even tell you that you still need to brush your teeth and hair. If you get a continuous no every time, try offering the toothbrush with only water on it when you ask. If you still get a no, just hand the toothbrush to your toddler. Let him look at it and see you brushing your teeth.

Even by getting your toddler to take the toothbrush, you are making progress. Do not let him take it out of the bathroom or it will become a toy or cleaning utensil. Keep insisting that the toddler put the toothbrush in his mouth and try to brush his teeth. Once he puts it into his mouth, he will probably chew on it. Let it be. This is how many little ones start and it is a good learning point. He probably finds the texture and crunch of the bristles fun. Once you are finished brushing your teeth and have put your toothbrush up, help your toddler. Do not force it away, but gently take his toothbrush and actually brush his teeth for him. If all you can get is the front teeth, do not fret; the rest will come soon. Continue to let him try first and you finish the job for him until you see him starting to actually try brushing his teeth.

Congratulations, you have succeeded, but we are not done. Now is when you should introduce kid's toothpaste. You do not want to use adult toothpaste because your child will ingest most if not all of it and it is not good for them. Kid's toothpaste is designed differently do to this fact. A very small dab on the toothbrush is more then enough. If your toddler will still let you assist, then show him the first time what he should do with the new toothpaste. After this, let him do it. If he reverts back to chewing on the brush, just remind him to brush his teeth with it. Do not yell and get discouraged. Many toddlers will eat the toothpaste and then brush their teeth. As time goes on and with your persistence to not eat the paste and use it on his teeth, he will get the idea and actually brush his teeth with it.

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