Let’s be real — getting kids to brush their teeth can feel like a daily battle. One minute they’re running in circles, the next they’re melting down because the toothpaste is “too minty.” Sound familiar?

Good news: brushing doesn’t have to be a fight. With a few fun tricks (and a little creativity), you can actually get your kids excited to brush — no bribes, no tears, no drama.

Here’s how:

1. Turn Brushing Into a Game

Make brushing a race: “Let’s see if you can finish before the timer goes off!”
Pretend the toothbrush is a superhero, blasting away “sugar bugs.”
Try fun brushing apps or videos made just for kids.

2. Let Them Be the Boss (Sort Of)

Let your child pick their own toothbrush — the sillier, the better.
Give them toothpaste options too. Bubblegum? Watermelon? Yes, please.
Offer small choices: “Do you want to brush before or after pajamas?”

3. Stickers, Charts & Little Wins

Use a sticker chart to track each brushing session.
Celebrate small wins with high-fives, extra bedtime stories, or tiny treats (non-sugary, of course).
Make it a big deal when they hit milestones: “You brushed every night this week!”

4. Brush Together

Kids copy what they see. If you brush, they’ll want to brush too.
Make it a family thing — even better if you’re dancing or playing music while you do it.
Narrate what you're doing: “Now I’m brushing my back teeth. Oh no, sugar bugs — you’re not staying here!”

5. Make Up a Silly Story

Create a story where your child’s toothbrush is on a mission to save “Tooth Town.”
Give the toothpaste a silly name or superhero power.
Switch up the story to keep it fresh — kids love a good plot twist.

6. Keep It Chill

Skip the battles. Stay calm even if they resist.
Stick to the routine — same time, same steps, every day.
If it doesn’t go perfectly, that’s okay. Just keep showing up.

7. Get the Dentist Involved (In a Fun Way)

Take your child to a friendly pediatric dentist who knows how to make visits fun.
Talk about the dentist like they’re a cool tooth expert, not someone to fear.
A great first visit can build confidence and curiosity about caring for teeth.

Bottom line? Make brushing less of a “have to” and more of a “want to.” Keep it light, let them take the lead sometimes, and have fun with it. You’ve got this — tantrum-free brushing is totally possible.

Unlock the Smile: Turning Brushing Battles into Bonding Time