For the Child Who Skips the Rinse

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

What to say

1. Brushing is over. Rinsing is the last part, and it counts.

2. I know the rinse tastes strange after mint. That’s fair.

3. Two sips of water, swish while you count to five, then spit.

4. You turn the tap off when you’re done. I won’t stand over you.

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.