Raising Children Network: the Australian parenting website
  • Suitable for 18-42Months

Bathing your toddler

By Raising Children Network
 
 

The bath is a relaxed and wonderful environment for most toddlers but also a great place for a play. Your toddler will happily entertain herself with plastic cups, funnels and bottles and toys that float.

Toddler in bubble bath
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Now that your child is able to sit securely you needn’t keep a hand on her at all times. But make sure you are within arm’s reach and never leave the bathroom – she may slip or turn on the hot water. Drowning can happen in a matter of seconds and in very little water.

For a bit of variety you can also let your child come in the shower with you sometimes. The main challenge with showers, and baths for that matter, can be getting your toddler to agree to come out!

Some toddlers become afraid of the bath. If this happens, take your toddler’s fears seriously, as they are very real to her. To help overcome a fear of the bath you can try:

  • taking a bath with your toddler
  • letting her sit in the bath without water in it
  • getting her to leave the bathroom before you take the plug out, as some toddlers are afraid of getting sucked down the plug hole
  • having a shower with her
  • letting her sit in the baby bath in the big tub (if she still fits).
 
 
 
 
  • Last reviewed15-05-2006
  • References

    Victorian Parenting Centre (2003). C-Frame: connect, collborate, change (CD-ROM). Melbourne:VPC.