![]() ![]() Always touch your child gently but firmly, and approach from a direction that they can see you coming. ![]() Some strategies to try for a child is quite sensitive to touch are: Lots of children find participating in these activities upsetting. Sensory Difference Hair Brushing and Hair Cutting > Encourage your child to be in a comfortable position e.g. > Give your child an element of control, such as choosing which nail to cut first. > Encourage them to count down so they know when the process will end. > Use a visual aid so that they are aware what the process will look like Ensure your tools are sharp so that they cut through the nail on the first attempt. Curved nail scissors, baby nail clippers, nail files (cardboard or glass) are all worth trying. Some children take a little while to adapt to new sensations, so try to use a new tool 4 or 5 times before trying the next thing. You may need to experiment with a few different things before finding what is most comfortable for your child. > Try different tools, for example, if your child cannot tolerate nail scissors, try using nail clippers or a nail file. Hand massage or place an inflatable swimming arm band on hand and massage each nail before and after each cut. > Provide deep pressure activities before attempting to cut their nails eg. Here are some suggestions for you to try with your child: Some children have difficulty tolerating having their nails cut which can make this necessary task upsetting and stressful for parent and child. > If your child cannot tolerate the taste of toothpaste, try an alternative flavour (there are many off the shelf options) or try an unflavoured toothpaste such as OraNurse 0-3 or OraNurse original. > Try using a reward system to help encourage your child, avoid rewarding though with sugary snacks. > There are apps available that provide timers, information on how long to brush each part of the mouth – they can be motivating for children. > If you child misses out some parts of their mouth, encourage them to use a mirror when brushing. > Multi directional toothbrushes can be helpful if your child can only tolerate having the brush in their mouth for short periods and can reach multiple surfaces of your child’s teeth at the same time, finger toothbrushes are an alternative, they are more gentle. You may need to show them, do it with them, use hand over hand etc… Include a picture of tooth brushing or a tooth brush in your child’s morning and evening visual schedule. > To help prompt your child to clean their teeth, use visual aids to support their understanding of routines. > Try to help your child understand why they need to brush their teeth in the first place – this can be a common issue for children with additional support needs when teeth brushing is just done for them without warning. > Consider using a soft brush head, rather than medium or hard. > Try using an electric toothbrush as less movement is needed. The following tips may help you to support your child with learning to brush their teeth independently: ![]() If your child has additional needs and is struggling, you should continue to assist. > Children should be able to brush their teeth independently by approximately the age of 7/8. > As soon as they are able, encourage your child to have a go at brushing their teeth first before you take over. > It is recommended that teeth are cleaned for 2 minutes. ![]() Children should have their teeth brushed as soon as they appear and teeth brushing should be established into routine as early as possible. ![]()
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