Kids and brushing teeth

So, my stepdaughter is 11, and hygiene is not a thing she is into (I can't wait for her to care what she looks like, do her hair, etc ). Anyway...I went on a business trip on Sunday and came home Wednesday. On Monday, she slept over a friends house. So today...I'm giving the baby a bath and I notice that her toothbrush is not in the holder by the sink. So, I ask where it is? All I get is "I don't know" (which is pretty much the answer to every question along with one of these ). After a few proding questions, I determine it's still in her bag from when she slept over her friends house...which is not unpacked and sitting in the corner with dirty clothes in it.

ME: You haven't brushed your teeth in 3 days?
DD: I guess not
ME: What's 3 x 2
DD: 6
ME: Ok...well 3 days, times 2 times a day for brushing your teeth, tonight after dinner you get to brush your teeth 6 times
DD: (but actually does it without much complaining)


I told her to make sure she remembers tomorrow

ETA: Oh...DH's response (since he was supposed to be in charge), she's 11, she shouln't need me to tell her and check on her about it

Message edited 8/30/2007 8:44:50 PM.

Re: Kids and brushing teeth

My ds would go forever with out brushing his teeth if I didn't make him do it and he's 9. My step dtr who's 10 her mom says she always has to tell her to do it as well. Hopefully it's just the age

Re: Kids and brushing teeth

My 10 year old step-son is the same way. He has to be reminded every day, otherwise he just doesn't do it.

Re: Kids and brushing teeth

I am hoping this phase passes quickly

Re: Kids and brushing teeth

I agree.