My 4-year-old has been giving me the runaround lately every time I pull out the toothbrush. I've tried the usual tricks like singing songs or letting him pick toothpaste flavors, but it's still a battle half the time. Recently, I've been looking into those electric toothbrushes made specifically for kids, you know, the ones with cartoon characters and timers and stuff. But then again, there are also those manual brushes that come in fun shapes or have flashing lights in the handle or suction cups on the bottom.
I'm kinda torn between these two options. On one hand, electric brushes seem like they'd do a better job cleaning teeth and maybe be more exciting at first. But on the other hand, the manual ones might be easier for him to handle himself and maybe less intimidating? I don't know...I just want brushing teeth to be less of a chore and more of a fun routine for him.
Anyone tried both and noticed if one actually works better for getting kids interested in brushing? Curious what everyone's experiences are.
My grandson had the same issue around that age. His parents got him one of those electric brushes with Spider-Man on it, and he actually started looking forward to brushing. But honestly, it took him a bit to get used to the vibration—he was hesitant at first. Maybe start with a manual one that's fun looking, then introduce the electric one gradually? Might ease the transition and keep things calm...
That's a good suggestion, easing into it gradually can definitely help. When my niece first tried an electric toothbrush, she found the vibration ticklish and a bit overwhelming at first. Her parents let her hold it herself without turning it on for a few days, just to get comfortable with it. Seemed to help her adjust pretty smoothly. Curious if anyone else has tried this approach or found another trick to make the electric brush feel less intimidating for kids?
We tried something similar with our youngest, but instead of just holding it off, we let him brush his favorite stuffed animal's teeth first (obviously with it turned off, haha). He thought it was hilarious and it seemed to ease the anxiety a bit. After a couple days, he was actually excited to try it himself. Wonder if anyone else has used toys or games to make brushing less stressful?
After a couple days, he was actually excited to try it himself.
Definitely agree with trying toys first—smart idea. We started with manual brushes mainly because they're cheaper and easy for small hands to control. Switched to electric later once brushing became routine...worked out fine without breaking the bank.
