0:00 Intro

 

0:42 Planning a suitable environment

Plan the environment where you are going to brush in advance

Some children may dislike using the bathroom for brushing as it can be sensory overloading or have bad connotations with it There are many other places parents have found to be successful for brushing such as the car seat, buggy, bath, shower, or even outdoors

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2:16 Considering sensory needs

Places such as the bathroom may be sensory overloading, especially at busy times of the day with other family member

Consider the sounds of the things you are using for brushing, for example, the sound of electric toothbrushes can be overwhelming for some children

Consider the smell of different products being used, particularly in the bathroom, airing the bathroom before brushing can be helpful to reduce these smells

Some children may not like the feel of the bathroom floor or any dampness on their feet, putting down a towel can be useful for this

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4:40 Considering the social environment

It can be helpful for some children if you use less words when talking during brushing

Some children may find the smell of strong perfume overwhelming when brushing It is important to be observant of the child’s verbal and non-verbal cues, and to be mindful of being as close to the child as they want us to be, and how they want us to be in terms of being calmer or more enthusiastic

 

6:00 Time limits when brushing

Although it is recommended to brush for two minutes, for many children it is very difficult to be in an overwhelming environment for this long

For many children two minutes is unachievable at first, which is okay, two minutes should be seen as a goal rather than what you must be doing from the very beginning

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Be kind to yourself. Remember that it’s okay to have challenging days. Celebrate small victories and progress. Being patient and compassionate with yourself is just as important as being kind to your child.