Perhaps you're at the point in teaching your child how to brush their teeth where you can't quite keep them engaged or get them excited to join in. You've pulled out the snazzy-looking toothbrush and their favorite flavored toothpaste, but something's still missing. Could it be...a song?! Using music to encourage your child in their oral care habits might do the trick!
While we know you've worked hard to take care of your child's gums as an infant, helped them through the difficult stage of teething, and are teaching them how best to hold their toothbrush, ultimately, your child's oral care will be up to them. Good habits start young, so helping your child become an active participant in their oral care routine early on can contribute to healthy dental habits into adulthood.
You've probably heard a song that's a "piggyback song" before but may not be aware of this term. A piggyback song takes the tune of a traditional song with new lyrics that fit the theme of the teachable concept, which in your case, is about brushing teeth! Parents and caregivers can use these songs as a fun way to teach brushing, flossing, and good dental hygiene. Young children usually love this song method and learn well by repetition.
Using songs about teeth as a reminder that it's time to brush and floss is something you and your child can do together. The American Dental Association also knows the importance of an excellent toothbrushing tune. They've rounded up seven great songs with videos for a "brushing playlist" that should get your child excited about this twice-a-day habit.
The below tunes are great dental health songs for preschool-aged children, and we hope you find one or two that you genuinely enjoy!