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How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids

6 / 02 / 2026

Brushing can feel like a battle. Kids might see it as a chore. But it doesn’t have to be that way! With a few simple ideas, brushing can become fun, playful and effective. At Larkham House Dental Practice, we love helping children build strong habits. A healthy smile starts with happy brushing.

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How to Make Brushing Fun for Kids

Brushing can feel like a battle. Kids might see it as a chore. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple ideas, brushing can become fun, playful and effective.

At Larkham House Dental Practice, we love helping children build strong habits. A healthy smile starts with happy brushing.

Why Kids Sometimes Resist Brushing

Children are naturally curious. They want fun, not chores.


Brushing feels repetitive. It’s hard to stay focused.


That’s okay — with the right tools and a little creativity, we can change the story.

Make Brushing a Game

Turn minutes into points.
Try setting challenges: “Can you brush for 2 minutes without stopping?”
Use a timer or music to make time fun.

🎵 Play a favourite song for the full brush time.

Try apps designed for kids.
Apps like Brush DJ play music while tracking the two minutes.
Search “Brush DJ app UK” in your app store — it’s free and easy to use!

Brush DJ

Use Storytelling to Engage

Tell a story during brushing.
“Tilly the Tooth Fairy needs help!”
“Zap the Sugar Bugs!”
Stories make brushing imaginative and exciting.

Mum, & daughter brushing teeth

Involve Your Child in Choices

Let kids pick their toothbrush.
Bright colours. Favourite characters.
Fun toothpaste flavours (mint can wait a little!).

The more they choose, the more they feel in control.

Manual Toothbrushes

Try Videos That Teach Brushing

Sometimes seeing is believing.
Short, cheerful clips work best.

Here are a couple of kid-friendly options:

 

  • YouTube: “Brush Your Teeth with Peppa Pig” — simple, fun and familiar.
    (Search YouTube for Peppa Pig brushing teeth or visit the link here)
Peppa pig toothbrushing
  • YouTube: “The Toothbrushing Song” by Blippi — lively tune and clear steps.
    (Search YouTube for Blippi toothbrushing song or visit the link here.)
blippi

Reward Progress (Not Perfection)

Rewards help kids feel proud.
Try:

  • A sticker chart.
  • Small privileges after a week of brushing.
  • A special family breakfast dance.

Keep it positive. Praise effort, not just results.

Brush Together — Lead by Example

Kids mimic behaviour.
Brush at the same time.
Make it a family routine.

You’ll reinforce good habits — and enjoy a few laughs.

family brushing teeth

Brushing isn’t just about clean teeth.
It’s about setting healthy habits for life.
With the right approach, kids can enjoy it — and so can you.

Need personalised advice? Contact Larkham House Dental Practice — we’re here to help keep every smile bright!

First Dental Visit: What Parents Should Expect

First Dental Visit: What Parents Should Expect

Your child’s first trip to the dentist can set the tone for their oral health for years to come. At Larkham House Dental Practice in Plymouth, we aim to make that first visit positive, gentle, and helpful. Here’s what parents should expect, and how you can prepare.

Girl brushing teeth

Brushing your teeth, why, when and how

Why do you need to brush your teeth? Brushing your teeth twice a day isn’t just to keep the mouth feeling clean. It’s a way to keep your whole body healthy, too.

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  • 49 Larkham Lane
  • Plymouth
  • PL7 4PH
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