How can I share “Brush-Brush, Teeth” as a comfortable routine?

By Down Syndrome Digital ·

Suggested age: 21–25 months

About this activity

Activity: Brush-Brush, Teeth — a short, child-led play idea for children with Down syndrome aged 21–25 months. Follow your child’s cues and enjoy the activity at their pace.

The illustrations come from the source activity. The written steps have been adapted for safer, child-led play; do not copy equipment or handling positions shown unless they are specifically recommended for your child.

What can this activity invite?

Share sounds, faces, or familiar textures without asking your child to make a particular movement.

What do I need for this activity?

A comfortable, stable place to play and the familiar items named in the steps. Choose materials made for your child’s age and ability; keep small parts, loose strings, plastic bags, and balloons away from babies and young children.

How do I play this activity?

1. Use your child’s familiar routine

Illustration for “Brush-Brush, Teeth!”, step 1: Prepare in the bathroom a cup with a child’s toothbrush and toothpaste, and a cup with warm boiled water for yourself and for the child.

Follow the dental-care guidance you already use and choose a child-sized, age-appropriate toothbrush.

2. Show the brush first

Illustration for “Brush-Brush, Teeth!”, step 2: Offer the toothbrush to the child so they can touch and hold it.

You can demonstrate on a doll or let your child look at the toothbrush. Do not put a toy or another person’s brush in your child’s mouth.

3. Offer a choice

Illustration for “Brush-Brush, Teeth!”, step 3: Draw attention to the bristles of the brush: "Look, we need to put toothpaste here." Squeeze an amount of toothpaste onto the brush the size of a pea.

Invite your child to hold or look at their own toothbrush. Never force brushing or move their jaw, lips, or head.

4. Keep the routine comfortable

Illustration for “Brush-Brush, Teeth!”, step 4: Ask the child, "Show me how you can brush your teeth.

Use toothpaste only as recommended for your child and stop if they are uncomfortable or turn away.

5. Ask a dental professional

Illustration for “Brush-Brush, Teeth!”, step 5: Tell the child: "Now we need to rinse the mouth." Take your cup of water and show how you do it.

For questions about brushing, toothpaste, or oral sensitivity, follow advice from your child’s dentist or care team.

Frequently asked questions

Does my child need to finish every step?

No. Follow your child’s interest and stop whenever they need a break. There is no correct pace or required outcome.

What if my child is not interested today?

That is okay. Pause, try another activity, or return another day. Looking away or turning away is a cue to give your child space.

How long should we play?

There is no set duration. A short, comfortable moment is enough; stop if your child seems tired, distressed, or uncomfortable.

Is this therapy or a developmental assessment?

No. This is a play invitation, not therapy, a milestone target, or an assessment. It does not replace advice from your child’s clinicians.

Can I adapt this activity for my child?

Yes. Keep it comfortable and child-led. For questions about feeding, oral-motor skills, bath safety, positioning, or movement, use guidance from your child’s own care team.