For Brushing Teeth Without a Fight

Four lines you can say out loud tonight. Word for word. Free to save.

What to say

1. It’s brushing time. We brush every day, and it isn’t a choice.

2. Nobody likes being told what to do with their own mouth. You don’t have to like it.

3. I’m going to stand right here with the brush until you open.

4. You can be mad the whole time. I’m not going anywhere.

When to use it

This is for the moment it actually goes wrong — not the calm version you rehearse in the car. Pick one line. Say it once. Then stop talking and wait three seconds. If they push back, repeat the same line, not a new one. Say the same thing for five nights before you decide it doesn't work.