If brushing teeth feels like a battle, or your toddler protests every bath - you’re not alone. These early years are joyful, chaotic, and full of learning, and it’s completely normal for everyday routines to come with a few tears (and lots of bubbles).
At Papilio Early Learning, we’re here to support families as children build the life skills that matter most - like caring for themselves and developing healthy hygiene habits. Whether your little one is still learning to wash their hands properly or getting used to the feel of a toothbrush, the secret is consistency, patience, and a little bit of play.
We know that managing routines across multiple kids - especially when you’re expecting another - can feel overwhelming. But even small, simple actions can make a big impact over time.
Here are some practical, playful ideas to help make brushing, handwashing and bath time part of your family’s everyday rhythm.
Tooth Brushing Without the Tears
Many toddlers push back on brushing their teeth. It’s unfamiliar, it tastes funny, and it interrupts playtime! But when you make it fun and predictable, it gets easier - for everyone.
Try this:
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Sing a two-minute song (like “Brush Your Teeth” by The Wiggles) while brushing.
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Let your child pick a fun toothbrush and toothpaste flavour.
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Brush together in front of the mirror - toddlers love copying grown-ups.
✨ Top tip: The Australian Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes from the time your child’s first tooth appears. At Papilio, our educators encourage good oral hygiene through role play, group time and story-based learning.
Got multiple little ones?
Try brushing together as a family! Older children can set the example for younger siblings, and you’ll save time while reinforcing healthy habits for everyone.
Handwashing that Sticks
Handwashing is one of the most important skills your child can learn - and one of the easiest to practice through daily play and repetition.
Ways to make it part of your routine:
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Keep a little step stool by the sink so your child can do it “all by myself.”
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Use foaming soap or colourful water timers to make it more engaging.
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Reinforce why we wash hands - after toilet time, before eating, after play - so your child begins to understand cause and effect.
💡 Fun fact: Singing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing hands helps ensure kids scrub for at least 20 seconds.
These are the same cues and rituals our educators use at Papilio, helping children build confidence and independence every day.
Bath Time that Builds Connection
Bath time doesn’t always go to plan - some toddlers love it, others resist it. The key is creating a calm, consistent experience that feels safe and enjoyable for your child.
You might try:
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Letting your child bring a toy or doll into the bath and “wash together.”
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Offering safe pouring toys, soft sponges or bath books.
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Keeping the routine simple and predictable - bath, book, bed.
Have more than one child?
Turn bath time into shared play. Your older child might enjoy “teaching” their younger sibling how to wash, which builds confidence for both. Just be sure to supervise closely and keep the atmosphere calm and fun.
What If Your Child Is...
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Under 2? Focus on playful exploration. Let them splash, mimic your actions, and get used to water and toothbrushes through gentle exposure.
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Ages 2–3? Begin to offer small responsibilities, like putting toothpaste on the brush or rubbing hands with soap. Celebrate small wins!
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Ages 4–5? Encourage more independence while still supervising. You might introduce a routine chart or “hygiene helper” reward system.
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Healthy hygiene habits don’t happen overnight - and some days it all clicks, while other days end in a mess of wet towels and toddler tears. That’s parenting. Wipes count, and so does trying again tomorrow.
At Papilio Early Learning, we partner with families to help children develop lifelong habits that support wellbeing, confidence and independence. Our educators gently guide children through handwashing, toileting, self-care and more - tailored to their age and stage.
The great news? These routines are being reinforced every day in your child’s centre - so you’re not doing it alone.
No matter what stage of parenting you're in - whether you're chasing after a toddler, helping a preschooler, or preparing for another little one - we’re here to support you.
👉 Find your nearest Papilio Early Learning centre and book a tour today