Oh... the dreaded brushing of the teeth... it used to be so difficult, now it's easy. Firstly, get yourself an electric kids brush (not the battery ones, I don't like them, but a re-chargeable one). It seems to be way more exciting and effective. DD has a collection of small plastic animals. She gets to choose one and take it into the bathroom. With a spare brush head and a tiny amount of toothpaste, she brushes the animal's teeth, while I brush hers. She is allowed to have a go at her own teeth when I'm finished.
I also used to "sing" with her. Making funny ahhh sounds that she was meant to repeat so I could get to her teeth. she loved that when she was younger.

What works?

- Keeping them busy and involved. Give them a bowl and some water so they can wash the peeled potatoes forr example. DD loves to help me cook and bake... letting her get things to help with changing her baby brother's nappy. Or she can choose what he wears.

- Choices as mentioned many times before. Genuine choices, not consequences. A choice is pink shoes or blue ones. A consequence is pink shoes or staying inside. But consequences are also appropriate and effective, just in different situations.

- It's always a challenge getting DD to eat as she is just too busy. But making it a little different often helps. Like giving her a toothpick instead of a spoon so she can spear her veges. But supervise closely as they are sharp. Or a baby knive so she can cut her vegetables.

- POSITIVE RE-ENFORCEMENT. I make a huuuge fuss when she does something desirable. She gets so proud and is more likely to repeat that behaviour. With huge fuss I mean cheering, clapping, throwing her in the air.

- Getting down on her level. Nobody likes being talked down on. She respond much better if I'm at her eye level.

- Enough activity/stimulation - but not too much. When we'va had a busy day, she is usually much more agreeable. If it's been too hectic, though, and especially if she didn't get enough sleep, then she is very very challenging.

There's much more (and also lots of things that don't/didn't work), but I can't think of anything right now...