Each year parents across the country use Elf on the Shelf to kick start holiday fun and encourage good behavior. Why not use the beloved tradition to encourage good oral hygiene, too? Below are 5 clever ways Elf on the Shelf will have your kids brushing and flossing with joy.
A reminder to floss: Does your child need help remembering to floss? Have another toy – like the tooth fairy – tie up your elf with dental floss.
Leave a minty surprise in the bathroom sink: Position your elf on the bathroom vanity holding a travel-size tube of toothpaste. Use toothpaste to write a note – such as a smiley face or “Brush Your Teeth” – in the sink. Leave a dab of toothpaste on your child’s brush so they’re ready to go.
Send your elf on an adventure: Tie floss from the mirror or shower curtain rod to the bathroom sink, and position your daredevil elf on the zip line for a fun ride. You can also use floss to send your elf propelling down the bathroom mirror.
Encourage reading: Maybe your elf is more of a bookworm? Position him or her in a fun spot, reading a book that encourages oral health, like “Bill and Pete” by Tomie de Paola or “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss. Plus, your bedtime story will be ready to go!
Play a game of hide and seek: Create a fun scavenger hunt by hiding your elf with your child’s tooth brush. Choose somewhere fun, like under the Christmas tree, sitting at the breakfast table, or a spot in your child’s room. When they find the elf, it’s time to brush.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry!
