A finger brush for infants is recommended in order to ensure healthy gums. Teething infants will likely welcome the crawling caterpillar or flighty bumblebee jumping all over their gums, and a soft toothbrush makes a great teething toy just before bed for young toddlers. All of these actions speak volumes to children of the importance of oral health well before an explanation can be given.
Whether there's a car stuck in their teeth that needs a car wash or a stinkbug that they'll chase out of their gums, games can entice toddlers and even preschoolers to rush for the brush each morning and night. Proper technique is what matters regarding good oral health. Songs and rhymes based on their personal interests often garner the best results; they don't even have to be about brushing or flossing. When the lesson includes fun, children remember.
Hearing the "how" without the "why" leaves some kids and parents at a standoff. A plethora of online games is available to teach without lecturing. Some include printable color sheets and family activities, while others offer game shows for older elementary school-aged children and challenging picture puzzles for kids of any age. Many games focus on teaching vocabulary and function, answering the question of "why," fact by fact.
As children gain momentum and independence with regard to their oral health, become their cheerleader through use of a progress chart, or raise the bar for them by having them use plaque-staining rinses. Consider tying good oral health habits to rewards as a way to show them how important a healthy mouth is. Any activity that targets their specific interests and allows them to earn rewards -- regardless of size or value -- is a game worth playing.