Flossing is an essential part of any oral care routine, even for kids. Baby teeth are vital to development. Flossing should start when your child has two teeth that touch to remove plaque and food debris. Once they’re old enough to start doing it themselves, they may become less motivated to keep up. Fortunately, there are a few methods that both teach kids to floss and encourage them to make it a lifelong habit!
How to Teach Kids to Floss & Make it Fun:
1. Floss Family Style:
A family that flosses together has a brighter smile together! Kids love to mimic what their parents are doing. Lead by example and floss with your kids. This is perfect for extra bonding time and allows you to notice any issues your child might have with flossing too hard or missing the molars.
2. Sing a Song:
Music can help make your child’s oral care routine more fun. Make up a melody unique to flossing. Here’s one that goes to the tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”:
Floss, floss, floss your teeth,
Do it every day,
Gently floss between the teeth,
Pluck the plaque away.
You can do this with any children’s song. Try changing the words to fit their favorite song from the radio!
3. Create a Reward System
Telling your child that they’ll have a healthy smile if they floss every day may not be convincing enough. Kids love having a fun reward to look forward to at the end of a task. Make a reward chart for brushing and flossing, offering a sticker after each flossing session. At the end of the week, give a reward. You can also set higher reward goals for flossing for the entire month.
How do you make flossing fun for your kids? Share your ideas in the comment section!
Editor’s Note: Content updated February 2019.