Teeth Brushing

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-18-2006
Teeth Brushing
3
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 9:19am

This is really probably just part of being 5, but I figure all of you have had or currently have a 5 year old so I'll ask.
DD takes forever getting the tooth brush in her mouth. She'll brush her teeth once it's in there, but it takes several prompts (and often a very much raised voice) to get her started.
Here's what I've done: Eliminated all distractions I can think of (she finds new ones every day). Got her a Tooth Tunes brush (plays music while you're brushing). Threatened to brush for her (she hands the brush to me.)

Any other ideas? This has really become the biggest snag in our morning. I've figure out the getting dressed bit, but the teeth is really driving me nuts.

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-20-2003
In reply to: brooklbsw
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 9:49am

Well, when we were having this same issue (and still do from time to time), I didn't think of it as such a big deal.

Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting
iVillage Member
Registered: 08-10-2006
In reply to: brooklbsw
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 12:57pm

Hi there,


Next to getting in to the shower, this is our second source of major stress in the hygiene department.

< < Photobucket

Christine

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-18-2006
In reply to: brooklbsw
Mon, 07-16-2007 - 7:59pm

I guess I worry that she'll get to 12 and I'll still be brushing her teeth for her. You're probably right, that there will come a day when she'll decide she can do it for herself. And it really is only two minutes.

I think there are days when I just hope for a magic bullet for certain behaviors. I'm glad I found this board for the support and ideas it provides.

Thank you