We teamed up with former midwife Jenny Smith to find out how to make bathtime a little less stressful for toddlers. Check out her tips for reducing bathtime frustration and plan a more relaxing evening!
Create flexible bathtime routines
The ticking of the clock last weekend may have thrown your bedtime and bathtime routines out of sync.
And since school holidays are expected to only facilitate this, use a few simple tips, including a flexible approach, to help parents resettle their children. I am here at
joined hands with retirees NHS midwifeJenny Smith offers advice to make bath time easier and more enjoyable for both parents and children.
From coordinating bedtime to encouraging play, here are four key things to consider when creating a suitable toddler bath time routine.
1- Relax at bedtime
An obvious but important tip is to tie bath time to bedtime.
To make life easier, start bathing about 20 minutes before to find the perfect temperature, and prepare any towels, shampoo, or toys you may need.
After you’ve put your child to bed, take this opportunity to clean up the bathroom and stay nearby so you can check on your child before heading back downstairs.
“We recommend taking a bath for about 30 minutes before going to bed.
Jenny Smith – former midwife
2- Don’t be afraid of flexibility if your child needs it
Most parents feel that routine is essential to a successful bath and bedtime, but Jenny advises that flexibility is actually a good thing.
“Children tend to prefer routine and stability, but it is important to be flexible and give time to suit the needs of the moment and how the child feels. Children are adaptable. And if you’re in pain, you may need more comfort than strictly a 7:00 p.m. bath time.”
Try creating cues that help your child get used to bath time.
For example, have them watch the same TV show for 10 minutes each time and associate that show with bath time.
3- Taking a bath after dinner improves efficiency
“It’s not harmful, but it’s a good idea to schedule bath time after your child has eaten dinner.
To add even more efficiency to your routine, use this playtime window to prepare for bathing as previously described.
If you’re doing bath time alone, set up a spot where both you and your baby are close together so you can be as productive as possible.
Four – Encourage and embrace bathtime play
Bath time doesn’t have to be stressful.
“Teasing the bath is a good idea because it encourages children to embrace and enjoy it. Play becomes easier for both parent and child.”
Investing in floor-standing mixer taps and hand showers gives parents more mobility as they move around their kids and wash their hair without interfering with play.
An added bonus of this setup is that parents can check the water pressure and temperature before caring for their children.
How to make bathtime smoother for toddlers?
Please share your tips and tricks. Let us know in the comments below if you have any great solutions to reduce the stress of bath time for toddlers.
Prior to joining the Big Bathroom Shop team, John trained in journalism. His exceptional journalism skills allow him to scrutinize bathroom topics closely and provide the latest news and views on all things bath and shower related. Dab!
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