A simple order
Bath, pajamas, last snack or milk, then teeth, then books. Putting brushing after food and before stories means the brush is the last thing on their teeth, and the story is something to look forward to.
Brush together
Kids copy what they see. Brushing your own teeth at the same time turns it into something you do together rather than something done to them.
Only water after, for toddlers and older kids
Once teeth are brushed for the night, many dentists suggest nothing but water for children past the baby stage. If your child wakes up thirsty, keep a cup of water by the bed. Babies under 6 months do not need water, and night feeds are a question for your pediatrician, not something to swap for water. See bottles, sippy cups and bedtime.
On hard nights
Some nights will be short and messy. A quick brush beats none. Keep the routine and try for the full two minutes tomorrow.
