Some children do not enjoy having a bath or shower. There are things you can do to help make your child's bath or shower a good experience.
Preparing for bath time
Being prepared is a great start to bath time.
Get everything ready before it’s time for your child’s bath or shower. Ask your child to help organise all the items. Let them choose a towel, pyjamas or toys they will play with in the bath or shower.
Helping out may make them feel more included. And it can help them develop decision-making skills.
Tips for a smoother bath or shower experience
Having a good routine with your child will help them get to know the steps involved.
Things that can help include:
- remind them of each step in bath or shower time - for example, make a picture or photo guide to show what happens next
- put everything in a specific place, within easy reach
- choose shampoo, conditioner and body wash with a pump - this can help them learn how much to use, usually just 1 pump
- if 2 bottles look similar, add a sticker, label or rubber band to mark 1 out
- use different-coloured bottles to help them learn - for example, shampoo is in a green bottle and conditioner is in a white one
- use a timer to let them know how long bath or shower time will last - some timers light up or make sounds, which can make the routine more fun
- use music to help time the bath or shower - when the songs change, go to the next step of the routine
If your child is afraid of water
Water can feel unpredictable and new for young children. They may rely on routines and things being predictable.
Some children also have movement difficulties, which can make it harder to respond to splashing or flowing water.
With gentle support, your child can learn to feel safe and enjoy bath time.
If your child is afraid of the sound of rushing water, fill the bath before they go into the bathroom.
Some children are afraid of being pulled down the drain. Let them choose a bath toy and leave the toy in the bath when you’re emptying it. Show them that the toy does not go down the drain. Remind them that they are much bigger than the toy.
To help your child get over the fear of the water, let them play in the bath after the washing is done. Teach them how to blow bubbles in the water.
To settle a younger child who is upset about bathing, put on your swimsuit and get in with them. They might enjoy this and it can often help them relax.
Having fun in the bath
Bath time can be a great time for your child to have some water fun.
There are things you can do to help your child relax and enjoy the bath or shower experience.
Do
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before a bath, let your child play with water in the sink - this lets them get used to water
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use kitchen utensils as bath toys - for example, measuring cups, spoons, lids and plastic tubs
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swap bath toys regularly to keep playtime fun and interesting
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show your child how to wash a toy - this can help teach them learn how to wash themselves
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encourage children to wash themselves while singing the name of the body part out loud
Keeping your child safe during bathing
Bath time can be fun, but it’s important to keep your child safe in and around water and wet and slippery floors.
Make sure you:
- never leave a small child alone in the bath - older children may be fine on their own, but some children with additional needs will always need you nearby
- show your child the hot and cold taps, which usually have a red and blue mark - put coloured hair bobbins around the taps if you want to make it clearer
- use bath chalk or crayons in red and blue - to write ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ or draw a picture to help your child understand
- wipe up any water or soap spills as soon as possible to avoid slips
- always test the water temperature with your elbow before letting your child get into the bath
- cover taps with foam to prevent injury if your child knocks against it
- use slip-resistant mats inside and outside of the bath or shower
- use a baby bath for infants and young children - check the label for weight limits
This content was adapted from information provided by Enable Ireland.