For the Child Who Walks Around While Brushing

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

What to say

1. Brushing happens standing still, in the bathroom, in front of the sink.

2. Standing still is the hard part. Your body wants to keep moving.

3. Both feet stay on one tile square, and the timer sits on the sink where you can see it.

4. You pick the square. Two minutes in it, then you’re free.

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.