Bathing isn’t just about cleaning dirt and grime. Parents of young children often see bath time as an opportunity to bond with their babies. Young kids usually enjoy the feel of warm water, which also helps soothe and calm a restless child. However, bathing can bring questions and anxiety for new parents. Parents can follow these tips and timelines for bathing young children. 

The World Health Organization recommends waiting until 24 hours after birth to give a baby their first bath. Babies who are bathed immediately may be more prone to losing heat and developing hypothermia. This small stressor can also increase the risk of a drop in blood sugar levels in some infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that delaying a bath also helps keep the vernix, the waxy white coating on a baby’s skin before birth, in place a bit longer. Vernix acts as a natural moisturizer and may have antibacterial properties. 

When infants are at home, experts recommend that sponge baths once or twice a week are enough to keep the child clean. Henry Ford Health states that parents should not submerge a child in a full bath until the umbilical cord stump falls off. Instead, use a warm washcloth and a small amount of baby-safe cleanser to wipe away dirt, paying close attention to skin folds. 

A child should never be left alone in a tub. Before filling the bath, parents should make sure everything they need is within easy reach. They should also keep at least one hand on the baby at all times, since water and cleansers can make things slippery. Additionally, the water level should stay below 2 inches for children aged 2 years and younger. As a child gets older, it’s time to switch from a bath seat to sitting in the bathtub alone. Seats can tip over as kids grow bigger. Make the transition when the child can sit up on their own. Having plenty of bath toys available makes bathing more enjoyable. 

The age at which a child is ready to bathe themselves depends on their maturity and desire for privacy. Some kids can do so as early as five or six years old, but many experts suggest waiting until they are around eight. Until then, parents might stay in the room with their child but allow the young one to wash independently. Kids may need reminders about what to do so they don’t just focus on splashing around. By age seven, some kids are more eager to shower, even when their parents are still supervising the washing. High water temperatures and slippery surfaces can pose safety risks for independent showering, so kids may need extra guidance to prevent injuries. 

Once a child reaches puberty, they usually need to shower more often. Hormonal changes can cause odors, oily skin, and hair issues. Participating in sports or playing with friends may lead to sweating. This might be a good time to discuss with a preteen about increasing how often they bathe or shower.

Safety during bath time is an essential point of emphasis for parents caring for young children.