Bath Time By: Katelyn Berkheiser and Sheila Miller

Essential Questions How do you safely bathe a young child? What are the differences in bathing a baby versus a toddler?

Age 1 and Under Sponge Bath First two weeks or until umbilical cord falls off Pay extra attention to underarms, hands, skin folds, and bottom Use a damp cloth and clean water only. Do not wash with soap until umbilical cord has fallen off Do not wash your child daily 1 month and older Bathe baby in a small, plastic tub filled with 5 inches of water Make sure that room and bath water is room temperature as to not harm the child Slide child into water while supporting head Use soap sparingly Always gather all items before bath time, that way you do not need to leave your child alone.

Instructional Video

Age 2-3 Slowly transition your child from the baby bath to the regular bathtub. Place the baby into tub feet first while talking to her softly, as to relax her. Gently wash face and hair, using baby products, keeping the suds out of her eyes by placing a dry washcloth on her face.

Age 4-5 As the child grows, she may be able to wash herself. Slowly give her more independence and allow her to do things by herself, but always supervise and be there to assist. Children should not bathe themselves until they are able to pull and hold themselves up.

Age 5 At age five, your child will probably be able to bathe themselves. Its important that you stay close by the bathroom to give assistance when needed. You may need to remind a child to wash certain parts of their body, as they may forget.

Song Time!! Wash your baby from head to toe, head to toe Face then arm, legs, belly then their butt Wash your baby from head to toe, head to toe