Baby Afraid Of The Bath?

The Comfort Of Routine

There’s a lot to be said for the predictability of a steady routine. They’re dull, boring and as comfortable as worn in ugg boots. A routine will help your baby feel more secure because they’ll know what to expect. We have dinner, then bath time, a story, and bed. It doesn’t matter what the routine is, as long as it works for your family and is consistent on a day-to-day basis.

Clear The Air

If it’s broken, it’s broken. So, don’t be afraid to change it. Maybe your baby doesn’t like having baths in the afternoon, try the morning or the middle of the day. Perhaps your baby is scared the bath will swallow them up, so try putting them in the shower. Some babies are happy with water falling on their head, even if they don’t like it being splashed on their face. Changing where and when bath time happens might help calm your baby’s nerves.

Try Swimming Lessons

Parent accompanied swimming lessons are available for babies from as young as four months of age. These lessons use water play to help babies feel comfortable in the water and the pool environment. Newborns have a reflex that makes them open their eyes and shut their mouth when submerged under water. So, you can start getting your child used to having water on their face.

Don’t set your expectations too high though, as pools are big, loud, busy and scary places for little people. Persistence is the key as your baby adjusts to the new environment and learns to feel safe.

A Laugh And A Chuckle

There’s nothing like combating fear with good old fashioned fun! Grab some bubble bath, throw in some toys, splash about and sing at the top of your voice.

If your baby is too frightened to get their toes wet, ask your partner to hold them while you hop in the bath. Make an exaggerated show of what wonderful fun you’re having in the water and, with luck, they’ll soon want to find out what they’re missing. Once your baby is in the bath be sure to reward them with lots of praise and encouragement.

REMEMBER! Toddlers and babies can drown in the bath if not properly supervised. So, grab everything you need before you put your child in the bath, and once they’re in the tub don’t leave the room.