Getting kids to brush their teeth can feel like a daily challenge that gets old very quickly! That said, the good news is that there’s one key difference maker that can help your child to brush on their own more effectively: praise. Believe it or not, positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to motivate children, and by doing so, you’re helping their smile to develop healthily. Here’s what you need to know, and some useful tips to keep in mind.
Why Praise Matters for Children’s Oral Hygiene
The simple truth is, kids thrive on encouragement, and when you acknowledge their efforts, they feel capable and proud—making them more likely to repeat a certain behavior or habit, such as oral hygiene. And while brushing can sometimes be tricky or tedious for kids, this praise helps to associate the habit with positive feelings, strengthening the likelihood of them developing a good routine.
Fun Ways to Praise & Strengthen Your Child’s Brushing Habits
Here are a few easy strategies you can use daily to praise your child and further develop their oral hygiene habits:
- Create a brushing chart using stickers or markers that celebrates your child brushing twice a day; after a certain amount of progress, give them a reward!
- Use positive verbal reinforcement, including phrases like “Keep going!”, “Great job!”, and “Almost done!”.
- Play your child’s favorite song while they’re brushing—some toothbrushes can do this for you! This also ensures they meet the two-minute mark.
- Make brushing a family activity by grabbing your toothbrush and joining in; kids are more likely to stick with it if you’re doing it, too!
Positive reinforcement isn’t just about making brushing easier; it’s about helping kids approach oral hygiene with a good attitude and ensuring they develop healthy, lifelong habits. By praising your child consistently, you’re keeping them smiling confidently!
About Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy, Dr. Mina Schafft, and Dr. Karin Herzog, our team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln has served families in Worcester for several years. We offer a wide range of pediatric services for children of all ages, ranging from routine checkups and cleanings to emergency dentistry for kiddos with hurt smiles. If you have any questions about the blog or need to schedule an appointment for your child, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (508) 506-8859.