The Importance Of Bathing Time: Practical Advice

The importance of bathing time for children

In order to maintain good health in children, it is important to develop good habits, in the field of personal hygiene, at a young age. This helps immensely when it comes to preventing a variety of diseases. That is why bathing time is so important.

Taking a bath is a hygiene measure that is extremely important to get rid of dirt and bacteria. At the same time, it is also a good way to contribute to children’s autonomy.

When babies reach the age of 6 months, the bathing time will be an opportunity for fun and play.  From the age of one, babies can start participating in their own personal hygiene. By the age of 3, they can start building even more independence.

Advice for bathing children

Many children do not like being alone in the bathtub. Especially if they are under 3 years old. For this reason,  it is good to ask them if they want the company of a toy or a doll  so that one can convince them to take a bath.

You can let your kids use a sponge themselves. At this age, they are more aware of their body and often want to wash themselves. Another valuable piece of advice is to  use neutral shampoo, and in small amounts. 

You will find more advice below that can help you make the most of your children’s bath time:

Choose the right time

It is not necessary to set a specific time for the bath time. You can use other activities as a reference to help establish a routine. For example, after dinner or before bedtime.

That way, your child will know when it’s time to take a bath. It is important to emphasize these routines for your children. It helps them build their identity, and contributes to stability through this stage where they are constantly growing and discovering new things.

You need to know which areas to wash and which not

At the age of 3, parents can let children wash their own stomachs, arms and legs, using their own sponge. However,  you should still be responsible for washing more delicate areas. 

For example: Ears. You should never introduce anything to your children’s ears and you should always make sure that they are cleaned properly.

The same goes for the nose. You can wash it using a sponge and saline solution.

Dangers when it comes to bathing time

It is typical that accidents can occur during the bath time if you do not make the right reservations. To prevent accidents, you need to make certain reservations.

First of all,  when your child is standing up in the bathtub, you should always hold his or her hand so that you prevent them from slipping. If possible, place a non-slip mat or marker on the bottom of the bathtub to increase safety.

At the same time,  keep all electrical appliances away from the bathtub. Also, do not leave your child alone in the water, at any time.

Even the slightest distraction can end in a serious accident. Make sure you take everything you need with you to the bathroom before you start.

Doctor and experiments

If your child is already going to school,  you can use this time to ask how things are going, or ask his or her friends. That way, you can strengthen your bonds, and encourage self-confidence and security.

This moment is also the perfect stage to learn new things, play or experiment. For example, to promote motor skills, you can teach your child to pour water from a bottle into a cup, without playing. Or, you can teach your child the different names of the body parts.

Adjust the water temperature

To avoid burns, you should adjust the temperature of the water, and  be aware that it is below 98.6 degrees. 

To test the temperature of the water, put your elbows, or the underside of your arm, under the water. Make sure the water feels warm, but not too hot.

How long should the bathing time last?

It is up to you how much time you want to dedicate to bath time. However, the main purpose should be your child’s hygiene, and not to spend a specific amount of time in the water.

Children are prone to getting cold. Therefore, be aware that the bath time is not too long.

When are children old enough to swim alone?

Over time, when children are around 6 years old,  most can bathe themselves, which means you can give them privacy. However, you should still practice a certain amount of control. For example, tell your child how long he or she should stay in the water and make sure he or she washes himself or herself properly.

Bathing time should not be a tedious or unpleasant activity for children. Instead, this routine should allow children to gradually take responsibility for their own, personal hygiene.

Be creative and take on this task with infectious enthusiasm!