Autistic tween won't clean teeth

[Deleted User]

The user and all related content has been deleted.

Nightcity

I'm not going to get into an argument because you are both right when discussing the average child, HOWEVER that's not how it works with autism he hasn't "chosen" to not clean his teeth there's a reason and punishments that would work and be the way for the average non autistic child will only create more issues.

And I didn't end up running the home or even trying to nor do any of the others who have refused various activities as a child I know and have read about.

All taking that path will do is create an almighty meltdown which is not good for the physical or mental health of the child or parent, and will create even more stubbornness and trust issues.

durhamjaide2001

what about rewarding him for every time he brushes his teeth instead of punishment.

Nightcity

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1083423#Comment_1083423

exactly 😃

durhamjaide2001

at least someone agrees with me

Adrian_Scope

This discussion has been paused so we can review it.

Community_Scope

We have decided to reopen this discussion, however, please bear in mind our House Rules. Replies should be civil, supportive, and safe. Negative comments about someone's situation is not supportive, so please consider this when replying in future.

Kimi87

If he can't tolerate brushing, would chewing sugar free gum after eating, and using mouthwash be an option?

dhoni4455

"what about rewarding him for every time he brushes his teeth instead of punishment."

I also agree with him.

sasuke_mum

Thank you @durhamjaide2001 , @dhoni4455 . @Nightcity suggested rewards too so we're giving that a try. @Biblioklept suggested gamifying, so we're aiming for five-in-a-row to get a reward and we've made a sheet for him to mark off morning and night. He's still struggling, but we're trying a soft toothbrush and mouthwash too - the mouthwash has been a really great shout, he's taken to that really well, thank you @Mrs and @Kimi87 and @Hopeless

I've learned a lot about Autism over the past six years and some of my ideas of parenting have changed. There are still consequences for bad behaviour but this isn't bad behaviour. @Passerby you could check out https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/ This site has videos of young people and parents talking about their autism and the challenges it can bring.

Thanks everyone!

Adrian_Scope

That's a great site @sasuke_mum, thank you for sharing it. How is your son getting on with marking it off?

sasuke_mum

Hi @Adrian_Scope He's really engaged with it and I'm hopeful that it'll become routine again and he'll be doing it independently. It's so good being able to get advice from people who understand, and in a lot of cases have the same challenge themselves.