For some children, bath time is something to be avoided, and leads to an all out war. Sometimes it's due to fear, and other times it's due to flat out stubbornness. Regardless of the reason, taking a bath is non negotiable and it must be done. So, throughout this article, I am going to explore
some ways for you to get over the bath time blues, even without them realizing it.
Luckily for me, my three year old daughter absolutely loves baths. I've spoken to many parents, including family members, who all confess how their toddler avoids bathing at all costs. Stepping back, I realize that a lot of parents have a big issue with this, and it's often as big as tantrums.
Here are some ways that you can turn bath time into a blast.
The first thing you always want to remember is to rule out any problems that could be making your toddler fear bath time. Always make sure that the water is comfortable, and by that I mean, not too hot, and not too cold. If your child is experiencing a fear, and is able to communicate this to you, address it immediately, and create a solution.
Fears can really take over peoples lives, especially children. They don't understand that there really is nothing to be afraid of. Sometimes it helps to introduce a bath time buddy. At your local store, look for dolls that are specifically for bath time. Having a doll of their own that takes baths with them will not only make them feel as if they're not alone, but that they're safe. If their buddy is OK, they are OK.
Another simple, yet practical, product is children's soaps and shampoos. More often than not, picking up these products in your child's favorite character will excite them so much that they will forget that they're actually cleaning themselves! Some children hate washing their hands with adult soap, but when you bring in a fun character soap, they totally forget that they're doing something they absolutely refused to do.
Children are creative at heart. It's very important for children to have outlets for this creativity, and what better way to allow them to express their artistic side than to color. There are many products in stores that are especially for bath time, such as letters, crayons and paints. I have also seen fishing sets for the water. These should only be used in the bath as described, and your toddler should not be allowed access to it otherwise. These are items that are rewards for bath time.
Do yourself a favor though. Always explain to your child that these bath time toys will be used after they are done washing. You will be amazed how quickly they will agree to this when they know they will be having some fun afterwards!
Remember, always address any fears. It's important that children understand that bath time is supposed to be a safe and happy time. Never leave your child alone in the bath tub. This will initiate panic in your child, and can be extremely dangerous.
Be creative, and let your imagination run wild. There are so many ways to make bath time fun for children, and they can even participate in the imagination. Perhaps they're going fishing, or even in the ocean.
Published by Mootilda
I'm one of many things. View profile
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1 Comments
Post a CommentWonderful tips and ideas! Thank goodness my two sons love bath time, and we only had a 2 week period a month ago where the youngest decided he didn't want baths. Thankfully that passed and we are back to loving the bath time fun and play!