Monday, June 10, 2013

When will my baby be ready to shower instead of bath?

When your child can stand in a shower stall and tolerate the feeling of water hitting his body from above, he can start taking showers. But most young children would rather sit and play in a tub than stand and scrub in the shower. Wait until he shows an interest. When he does, I would encourage you to get him used to the process first.
To get your child used to showering, start by holding him in your arms. The security you offer will help make the transition smoother. You can also get him used to the feeling in steps. Start by having him stand in the shower without the water running. For extra security, your child can sit on a plastic chair or a mat. When he feels comfortable there, have him stand outside the shower with the water on to get used to the sound. Then, allow him to watch a parent or older sibling taking a shower. This will help him put it together and understand the process. Also, it can be hard — even for adults — to stand in a wet bathtub without slipping. A non-slip mat will make it easier for your little one to stay upright.
It may take a while for your child to enjoy taking a shower; don't be surprised if the noise and spray are too much for him at first. If he doesn't like it, go back to the bath. In time he will desire showers, but until then, let him be a kid. Around age 6, your child can shower alone, as long as you are nearby in case he needs help. Until then, make sure you keep an eye on him when he is in the shower.

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