Shaka Shaka Shua Shua

One of the areas where we have had 'deferred success' (i.e. failure) is brushing Hannah's teeth. She really doesn't want to let us brush her teeth. So we don't brush her as often as we should, and she has built up of plaque on her front teeth.

One strategy Ive followed (unsuccessfully) over more than 6 months is to brush my teeth with Hannah every night after her bath. Hannah clearly enjoys this time with Dad, playing with her toothbrush and eating baby toothpaste, but she has never been very interested in brushing properly.


She is easily distracted, especially when she needs to take an important call.


When we have the energy, we follow-up in the bed-room. To avoid struggles it is necessary that Mum first brushes Dads teeth to show how much fun it is (and to prove the toothpaste isn't poisoned).

(Hannah took this viedeo with a little help from Dad)

All going well, Hannah will then allow Mum to brush her teeth. More often we have to struggle and hold her down.


Shaka shaka


Shua Shua


Hannah has a strong sense of fair play so she will often insist on brushing Dads teeth too.


O shimai! Ii ko, ii ko (all finished, good girl/boy )