The holiday season is quickly approaching, and while visions of sugarplums and candy canes dance in our heads, let’s not forget about those precious little smiles! This year, we’re encouraging all parents to sprinkle a little dental magic into the holiday gift-giving. With the right gifts, dental hygiene can go from a boring chore to something exciting and fun each and every day.
After all, very few kids are putting “a healthy smile” on their wishlist, so it’s up to us to help them see just how great it can be! Here are our suggestions to help brighten your holiday mornings:
Fun and Colorful Toothbrushes
Kids are more likely to brush their teeth if they have a toothbrush they love! Look for toothbrushes featuring their favorite cartoon characters or superheroes. You’ll likely find a variety of designs that even come with built-in timers to help kids brush for the recommended two minutes. Bright colors and fun shapes can make brushing an exciting part of their daily routine.
Tasty Toothpaste
Toothpaste doesn’t have to be boring! Gift your little ones some tasty, kid-friendly toothpaste options. Flavors like bubblegum, strawberry, or watermelon can make brushing feel more like a treat than a chore. Many brands also offer natural ingredients and lower fluoride levels for younger kids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Pairing these flavors with a cool toothbrush will make dental care feel like an adventure!
Engaging Books About Dental Health
Storytime is a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about the importance of oral hygiene. Consider giving books that focus on dental health in a fun and engaging way. Titles like “Brush Your Teeth, Please” by Leslie McGuire or “The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist” make learning about oral hygiene enjoyable. These stories can help kids understand why taking care of their teeth is essential, all while enjoying a cozy reading session.
Creative Flossing Tools
Flossing can be a challenge for kids, but with creative tools, it can be made fun! Look for colorful floss picks that come in animal shapes or fun designs. These can make the process of cleaning between teeth feel more like a game than a task. Some brands even offer flavored floss, which can make the experience more enjoyable. By introducing these fun flossing tools, you’ll help instill good habits from an early age.
Reward Charts and Stickers
To motivate kids to maintain their dental hygiene routine, consider gifting a reward chart or sticker set. We’re big fans of stickers as rewards (and kids are, too), and a dental hygiene chart can help track their brushing and flossing progress. Each time they successfully brush their teeth or floss, they can add a sticker to their chart. This visual representation of their accomplishments not only encourages consistency but also makes oral care feel rewarding!
A Holly Jolly Holiday is Almost Here!
This year, we hope you’ll consider these and other pro-health gift options for your little ones! We know nothing will replace video games, concert tickets, and stuffed animals, but these are great accent gifts that will do far more good than just a few days of entertainment. A healthy smile at a young age has the potential to last a lifetime.
Happy gifting!