Grooming a reluctant toddler is one of the least enjoyable aspects of parenting. Specifically, handling a raging toddler who hates bath time can turn the calmest of parents into frenzied lunatics.
Some kids hear the word bath time and start stripping away in excitement. Then there are others who despise the bathtub and leave no stone unturned in driving you up the wall with their whining.
If you’re reading this post, you’ve probably been blessed with the latter.
It helps to know that you’re not alone in this worry. Many parents cringe at the word bath time and all the dreadful tantrums associated with it.
Lets start off with understanding why your toddler hates bath time so much. Then we can move on to strategies you can use to turn this daily nightmare into one that both you and your toddler enjoy.
Why Your Toddler Hates Bath Time
Finds it difficult to transition
Most toddlers find it difficult to happily transition from one activity to another. They dislike being asked to stop what they are doing (especially if they’re in the middle of having fun).
They feel like you have rudely interrupted them. Which explains why many toddlers become aggressive and stubborn about not wanting to get in the bath tub.
Fear of shampoo getting in eyes
This is a big one. In fact, it’s probably the single most common reason for explaining your toddler’s shrieks in the bath tub.
Children have a very good memory when it comes to remembering things that caused them pain.
One incident of a teeny amount of shampoo in the eyes can cause them shampoo-in-the-eye fear for years to come.
Dislikes the sound of running water
The gushing sound of water filling up the tub can cause toddlers to get frightened. Many times they can’t explain this fear to you.
I wish they would, though. It would help us parents get to the root of the problem quickly and address it rather than second guessing what’s happening in our child’s brain.
This might seem like a small issue to you. However it could be a big factor in contributing to your childs unwillingness to step into the tub.
Finds water temperature uncomfortable
“It’s too cold!” or “Ow it’s so hot!” are sentences your child keeps screaming at you whilst in the tub.
You would think as parents we would have mastered the art by now of getting the perfect temperature water running.
Unfortunately we haven’t.
Hates getting face wet
Many children are fine with their bodies getting wet but freak out when water comes on their face. They feel uncomfortable and fear the water will get in their eyes and they won’t be able to see.
Doesn’t want to come out
Every parent will testify to this. After battling with you for eons that they don’t want to get IN the bathtub, many toddlers get in only to throw fits that they don’t want to come OUT.
They’ve adjusted to the temperature of the water and are finally enjoying themselves and splashing about.
Now they just want to stay in the bathtub.
FOREVER.
Preferably without you nagging them about how late it’s getting.
How to Make Toddlers Not Hate Bath Time
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Have a fixed time
Toddlers love having a predictable routine. It helps them make sense of their day and be more accepting when it comes to transitioning from one activity to another.
Many parents save bath time for just before bed. But it’s not a hard and fast rule.
I’m pooped out at the end of the day so I actually prefer bathing my kids before dinner.
Choose a time slot which fits your schedule, especially one where both you and your child have enough energy to spare.
Use a bath visor
A bath visor will save you so many tears and fears about getting shampoo in the eyes. They also go by the name of shower caps and they can play a big role in helping your child love bath time by preventing water from going into their eyes, nose and ears.
This one is very popular with toddler parents. Made from silicone material, the flower shaped ergonomic style is designed for the water to fall from the head without getting into the eyes or ears. It has 23 positions for adjustment, is lightweight and comes in cute bright colors to get kids excited about bath time.
Fill the tub before your child gets in and check temperature
If you suspect that the roaring sound of water is causing your child to fear bath time, try filling it up beforehand.
This will create a more peaceful and less scary ambiance for your little one. Also, always check that the bath water temperature is safe.
Check the water temperature using your elbow and NOT your hand. To be safer, it’s best to use a water thermometer.
This is the one parents are recommending on Amazon. The good thing is that it’s not only a digital water thermometer but also a room thermometer so you can set the ideal temperature of your child’s room. Plus it’s also a clock AND it’s designed to be a cute floating duck toy that your little one can play with.
Baby Bath Floating Toy Safety Temperature Thermometer
Post bath time incentive
Many parents struggle to get their kids in the bath, only to then struggle to get them out of the bath. The way to work around this one is to have something they can look forward to when they step out of the tub.
It doesn’t need to be anything fancy. You could promise them an extra story at bed time, 5 extra minutes of their favorite game or their favorite snack.
Simple Ideas to Make Bath Time Fun for a Toddler Who Hates Bath Time
Now that you’ve addressed every single issue your child could possibly have with bath time, you can move to the good part: making bath time fun!
Don’t worry, it doesn’t need your extra time or energy. Just a little bit of creative genius and you’re all set.
1. Twist on the regular bubble bath
Bubble baths are so much fun and can keep kids entertained for a long time.
You can add a twist to the traditional bubble bath and make it even more fun by adding in a few drops of food coloring.
Which kid (or adult for that matter) wouldn’t love bathing in swirls of purple and green foamy bubbles?
My toddler has a habit of swallowing bath water (yes I know, gross) so I was on the lookout for some non toxic bubble bath. I found this one by BabyGanics and love it! I read some reviews that said it didn’t make enough bubbles. But if you follow the instructions properly ie squirt the liquid under running water and then use your hands to splash then the whole tub gets filled with bubbles.
2. Glow bubbles
You could take the fun up a few notches by easily creating your own glow bubbles.
Simply take a cup of water, a dash of dish soap and some glow in the dark paint.
Mix it up, dim the lights and you’ll get end up with bright glowing bubbles and one happy toddler.
3. Bath crayons
Kids love scribbling all over the place and as adults we’re always freaking out that they might color on the walls or furniture.
Bath crayons are a genius invention, made for worn out parents and toddlers who hate bath time.
Not only can your little one unleash his artistic talent but he’ll also forget all about whining.
In fact, bath time will quickly become his favorite part of the day. These are some jumbo sized non toxic bath crayons that are toddler parent favorites and will last you a long while.
4. Glow decals
Don’t want to spend money on fancy bath time toys? Get some cheap glow decals, stick them on the shower wall and dim the lights.
Your little one will love swimming around in the glow in the dark tub.
5. Bath time songs
Singing bath time songs don’t cost a dime or require too much energy.
But it does wonders to lift up everyone’s mood and create a fun ambiance. Perfect for a cranky toddler who hates bath time.
6. Bath time stories
So usually you give your kid a bath and then read a story to them right before bed.
Why not combine the two? Read a storybook to your toddler while he’s in the bath.
This will not only help in keeping your child occupied during bath time but there’s one less thing you have to do before you can go crawl into your own bed. Win win. This is a pack of 6, non toxic bath books for helping toddlers learn, stay engaged and have fun during bath time.
7. Post bath incentives
Who can say no to a cozy bathrobe and a fresh pair of clean pjs? No one. Not even your cranky little toddler.
Lastly, finish off the bath with a big bear hug.
I hope these ideas help you in making bath time a less stressful and more enjoyable experience for you and your little one.
Liked this post? Share it with a toddler mommy friend who could use the advice.
You May Also Like:
9 Hilariously Easy Ways to Teach a Toddler to Brush Teeth Without Tantrums
15 Best Bath Toys For Toddlers That Are Educational and Fun
Simple Steps On How to Disinfect and Clean Toys Safely and Easily
[…] Handling a cranky toddler who hates bath time […]