How to get your toddler to brush their teeth

Brushing your toddler's teeth does NOT have to be a power struggle. In this video, I walk through tips to get your kids (including babies!) to more easily brush their teeth.
1. Always allow them to brush before you help them. Say "Time to brush our teeth. You go first!" Model in a mirror how you brush your teeth with a separate toothbrush and then allow them to copy you
2. ADD MUSIC: Music to their favorite beat or your favorite beat removes power struggles. In this video, I made up a song to a song from Encanto!
3. Add verbal praise when you see them showing up to do this and thank them!
4. Make it silly: "We have to get your sugar bunnies out!" "We have to get sugar monsters out to keep teeth clean!" "We have to clean your teeth so you can eat yummy food"
5. Always finish up after they try on their own. If they're upset, sing to them and kiss their cheek and say "You are doing wonderful, we're almost done!"
Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. Visit pedsdoctalk.com/courses/. The Toddlers and Tantrums Course will help you manage toddler tantrums and behaviors. Visit pedsdoctalk.com/toddler-cours...

[@Trinitea333]

Mamas like you needs to be given more credit. Youre the best!

[@pedsdoctalktv9960]

Aw thank you so much! ❤️

[@lanabear2707]

That worked PERFECTLY!!! My daughter loved it!!

[@pedsdoctalktv9960]

So glad to hear it!

[@christinaq3849]

Are there any follow up songs? This video is now part of our bedtime routine with our 17 month old.

[@pedsdoctalktv9960]

Haven’t come up with any others yet but you could make up your own version! Or sing any of their favorite songs. Distraction and silliness are key!

[@maryharkin9176]

That's so cute❤❤

[@roceliahernandez4249]

Can you share the tooth bush you’re using?

[@Mel-xz1fe]

NO

[@Charlotte-nb6rr]

I brush my teeth every day

[@blublubflop]

so cute!!

[@pedsdoctalktv9960]

we have a whole medley of songs!

[@christinaq3849]

@@pedsdoctalktv9960are they on the channel? I don’t see them.

[@BABABOOEY313]

What type of brush do you recommend for age 3 and above?@@pedsdoctalktv9960

[@sarahingunma]

What about a 16mo old? 😆

[@SAndo42]

My daughter would never let me do that.

[@pedsdoctalktv9960]

It took many many attempts with consistency and starting small but now he's comfortable with the routine! Your daughter may surprise you :)

[@zzzbbbooo]

Her teeth are important. Who's in charge - her or you?