Does your child like taking a bath? Or 6 tips to make it fun!

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: September 23, 2023

It's one of kids' favorite times: bath time! But why do they like it so much?

In the bath they can relax and play with water. They can discover their own limits and overcome their fear.

Let's take a look at the reasons why bath time is so much fun for kids.

From toddler to toddler activity book collection

Educational games and coloring pages for 3 to 6 years

Your toddler and preschooler will love this e-book, along with the accompanying printables. He or she can play with it at every stage of development, together with mom and dad.

Buy at Bol.com

This way you can get your child back to having fun in the bath

Your child may associate bath time with unpleasant experiences, such as rinsing out shampoo or washing their face. It may also be that the bath water is too hot or too cold, or that there is too much foam in the bath. It's important to understand why your child doesn't like bath time so you can take targeted action.

Tips to make bath time fun

• Shorten bath time: Children don't have to spend a long time in the bath every day. A few minutes in the water is enough to get clean and enjoy the water.
• Give your child control: Let your child determine how much foam goes into the bath, which toys are allowed and what temperature the water should have.
• Provide distraction: Give your child toys to play with in the bath, or read a book while your child is in the bath.
• Make the water nice and fresh: Add a few drops of essential oils to the bath water to make it smell nice and keep the water fresh.
• Make bathing natural: Use natural bath products that won't irritate the skin or make skin conditions like eczema worse.
• Make bath time a routine: Taking a bath at the same time every day can help make bath time predictable and less stressful.
• Do not make the bath water too hot: Hot water can irritate and dry out the skin. Make sure the bath water is no warmer than 37 degrees Celsius.
• Don't make the bath water too deep: Children often find it scary to sit in deep water. Make sure the water does not get higher than your child's hips.

Why is bath time important for children?

Bath time not only means that your child gets clean, but it is also a moment of relaxation and fun. The warm water can help relax the muscles and make your child stronger. Additionally, bath time can help reduce skin conditions such as eczema.

Why do children not like to take a bath?

Some children are afraid of it water and therefore don't like taking a bath. This may be due to an unpleasant experience in the past, but it may also simply be a phase in which the child is afraid of new things. It is important to understand this and let the child get used to it water. For example, start by letting them play with water in a container and slowly build up to a bath.

Don't feel like washing

Children sometimes don't feel like being washed. They hate having to take off their clothes and getting wet. Try to make washing fun by, for example, putting fun toys in the bath or singing songs together. This makes the bath a fun experience instead of an obligation.

Not enough time

Parents sometimes have too little time to bathe their child every day. This can lead to a struggle between parent and child, because the child wants to take a bath. Try to build a routine where the child takes a bath on fixed days and make this a fun moment. This way the child can enjoy the bath and does not have to take a bath every day.

Too hot water

It may be that it water is too hot, so the child does not enjoy taking a bath. Make sure it water is at the correct temperature and check this regularly. It is important not to keep the child in the hot water for too long water leave it on as this can lead to dehydration of the skin.

No fun things in the bath

Children like to play, even in the bath. So make sure you have fun toys in the bath, such as rubber ducks or boats. This makes the bath a lot more interesting and fun for the child.

Unnecessary parental pressure

Sometimes parents put too much pressure on their child to take a bath. This can lead to a negative feeling in the child and cause the child to not like the bath. Stay calm and patient and try to make the bath fun for the child. Allow the child to choose which toys they want in the bath.

Want too fast

It may be that parents want to go too quickly and do not give the child time to get used to the bath. Take your time and build it up slowly. Let the child get used to it water and give it space to play. This way the child will ultimately enjoy the bath.

Toy tips for a fun bath time with your child

Children often enjoy playing in it water. Therefore, take care some extra toys in the bath (here we reviewed the best), such as plastic animals or a boat. Let your child choose what he or she would like to take into the bath. In this way, the bathing moment not only becomes a moment to get clean, but also to play and discover.

Provide a safe playing environment indoors

It is important that your child feels safe in the bath. Therefore, make sure that you are always nearby and keep a close eye on your child. Use a non-slip mat in the bath so that your child does not slip. In addition, it is useful not to overfill the bath, so that your child does not drown water can come.

A safe environment for play indoors is also just as important as outside.

Make the bath time pleasant

Create a relaxing atmosphere during the bath time. For example, dim the light and play quiet music in the background. If necessary, use a bath oil or bubble bath with a nice scent to make the bath even more pleasant. As a result, your child will experience the bath moment as less annoying.

Try to get rid of fear of water

Some children are afraid of it water and therefore don't like taking a bath. Try to remove this fear by calmly explaining to your child what is happening in the child water and that it's not scary. Let your child get used to it first water by inserting your hand and slowly getting used to the feeling of it water on the skin. Take your time and don't force anything.

Give your child control

Let your child decide when he or she wants to get out of the bath. This will give your child the feeling that he or she is in control and the bathing moment will be experienced as less annoying. Also give your child the opportunity to wash themselves and stand in the shower. This way your child learns to take care of himself and the bath time becomes less dependent on you as a parent.

Jump in together

Children often enjoy taking a bath with their parents. So jump in together and make it a pleasant moment. As a result, your child will experience the bath moment as less annoying and will be more inclined to take a bath.

Give your child a reward

If your child finds it difficult to take a bath, it can help to give a treat afterwards. For example, a piece of fruit or an extra bedtime story. As a result, your child will experience the bath moment as less annoying and will be more inclined to take a bath.

Find out what works for your child

Every child is different and what works for one child may not necessarily work for another. So find out what works for your child and try different tips. This way you ensure that the bath moment for your child becomes a great moment that he or she looks forward to.

How often should you bathe your baby?

As a new parent, you may be wondering how often you should bathe your baby. It is important to know that daily bathing is not necessary for a newborn baby. In fact, daily bathing can dry out baby's delicate skin and cause irritation.

Bathe in the rhythm of your baby

It is better to integrate bathing your baby into the daily rhythm. Some babies love having a daily bath, while others find it less pleasant. It is therefore advisable to see what your baby likes.

Weekly bathing is sufficient

In general, it is recommended to bathe your baby once a week. This is enough to keep the baby's skin clean and prevent dehydration. In addition, you can wash your baby daily with a warm washcloth water to keep the face and bottom clean.

Special attention to reflux babies

If your baby suffers from reflux, where sour milk comes up, bathing daily can help relax the baby and help him sleep better. Make sure that you dry the baby well after bathing to prevent dehydration.

Bath oil and cream for baby skin

If you choose to bathe your baby regularly, you can use special bath oils to hydrate baby's skin and prevent it from drying out. In addition, after bathing, you can apply a moisturizing cream to the dry and oily areas of the baby's skin.

Shower as an alternative

If your baby doesn't like bathing, you can choose to shower together. This can be a safe and easier alternative to bathing your baby every day. Just make sure it water is not too hot and that you are holding the baby properly.

Soap is not necessary for a good bathing session

Children have a thin horny layer and fewer sebaceous glands than adults. This means their skin is more sensitive and less able to retain moisture. That is why it is important to gently cleanse and care for the skin of young children.

Soap can affect children's skin

Soap often contains preservatives and perfume that can irritate and dry out the skin. This can lead to eczema and allergies. In addition, soap can affect the fat layer on the skin, making the skin less able to retain moisture. This can lead to dry skin and itchiness.

Water is often enough to keep the skin clean

For daily washes water often enough to keep children's skin clean. Especially if your child is still wearing a diaper, it is not necessary to use soap. Diaper wipes are mild and often do not contain additives such as perfume. If you still want to use a product, choose a mild and soap-free version.

The water temperature is important

The water temperature during bathing is important for children's skin. It water should not be too warm, as this can damage the skin. A lukewarm water temperature of about 37 degrees is ideal. In addition, it is important not to let the bathing session last too long. A shorter session of about 10 minutes is sufficient.

A washcloth is enough to clean the body

A washcloth is enough to clean your child's body while bathing. It is important not to rub too hard, as this can damage the skin. In addition, it is important to regularly replace the washcloth and rinse it well to prevent bacteria.

How often should you bathe your child?

The frequency of baths depends on the age of the child and how active they are. For young children, such as babies and toddlers, it is sufficient to take a bath two to three times a week. For older children, such as preschoolers and toddlers, a bath or shower every other day or every other day is sufficient. Adolescents and teens who have sweaty armpits may need daily bathing or showering.

Bathe or shower?

A bath can be nicer for young children because they can play and relax in the warm environment water. A shower is better for older children because it is faster and more efficient. It is also important not to expose your child's skin for too long water, as this can lead to dehydration and skin conditions.

Wash and polish

It is important to keep your child's skin clean, especially between the skin folds and under the arms. Wash your child's hands regularly and brush their faces before going to sleep. A washcloth is enough to clean your child's body, soap is not always necessary. If you do use soap, use a mild soap that won't dry out the skin.

Additional baths

Sometimes an extra bath may be necessary, for example if your child is muddy or sweaty after playing. Or if there has been a leaked diaper or if they ate spaghetti bolognese. It is also important to bathe your child if they have a skin condition.

Why a washcloth can be a good alternative to a daily bath for your child

A daily extensive wash for your young child is not always necessary. A washcloth can be a quick and easy solution to keep your baby clean between big bath times.

Avoid temperature differences

A bath thermometer is a standard item for parents who bathe their child. It is important to monitor the temperature of the bath water to prevent your baby from being exposed to water that is too cold or too hot water. But even if you get the temperature of the bath water right, the temperature difference between the warm bath water and the cold bedroom can cause your child to get cold quickly. A washcloth can prevent this problem because you can wash your child in the warm bedroom.

Feel with your elbow

If you do decide to bathe your baby, it is important to check the temperature of the bath water. Use your elbow instead of your hand to do this. Your elbow is more sensitive to temperature differences than your hand. Make sure the bath water is around 37 degrees Celsius, which is the ideal temperature for baby's delicate skin.

Prevent diaper rash

If your child suffers from diaper rash, a bath with soap can irritate the skin even more. Instead, you can use a washcloth to clean your child's bottom. Use lukewarm water and possibly a small layer of sudocreme to protect the skin.

No dirty bath water

If your child is still wearing diapers, the bath water can quickly become dirty due to the faeces and urine in the diapers. A washcloth can prevent this problem because you only have to wash the dirty areas and not the whole body of your child.

Dry with a towel or diaper cloth

When your child has finished washing, you can dry him or her with a towel or diaper cloth. Make sure you dry the skin well, especially between the skin folds. This prevents your child from sweating and therefore suffering from diaper rash.

All in all, a washcloth can be a good alternative to a daily bath for your child. It is fast, simple and prevents temperature differences. Moreover, you can prevent diaper rash and you do not have to rinse away dirty bath water.

Bathing your child every day is not necessary

Many parents think that their child needs a daily bath or shower to stay clean. This is mainly because we have grown up with the idea that we have to wash ourselves daily. But is this really necessary for children?

Is it necessary to bathe your child every day?

According to research, it is not necessary to bathe your child every day. In fact, washing too often can be bad for your child's skin. The skin can dry out and become irritated, especially if you use too much soap. It is therefore important to keep a close eye on your child's skin and only wash it when it is really necessary.

What is sufficient?

For young children, a wash every other day is sufficient. For babies, you don't even have to wash them every day. A baby's skin is thinner and more sensitive than an adult's, so washing too often can lead to eczema and other skin problems. It is therefore better to only bathe a newborn if it is really necessary, for example if the baby has become dirty or has spat.

What are the effects of washing too often?

Washing too often can dry out your child's skin and become irritated. This can lead to itching, redness and flaking. It can also wash away the skin's natural oils, leaving the skin dry and fragile. This can lead to skin problems such as eczema, especially in young children.

What are the exceptions?

Of course there are exceptions where it is necessary to wash your child daily. For example, if your child sweats a lot, plays sports or plays outside and gets dirty. Even if your child suffers from diaper rash or other skin problems, a daily wash may be necessary. In that case it is important to take good care of and moisturize the skin.

What are the tips for washing your child?

• Use as little soap as possible and opt for a mild, unscented variant.
• Do not wash your child for too long and not too hot.
• Rinse the skin well and gently dry your child with a soft towel.
• After washing, use a moisturizing cream to protect and care for the skin.

Showering is better for your child's skin

It's a common misconception that showering is better for your child's skin than taking a bath. However, it completely depends on the composition of the product you use and the condition of the child's skin.

The water temperature makes the difference

It's true that showering is generally safer than bathing, especially for babies and young children. The water temperature is easier to control and there is less risk of slipping. But when it comes to skin health, a bath can actually be better.

Bathing maintains the horny layer of the skin

Bathe in lukewarm water Using a mild, soap-free bath oil or special greasy soap can maintain the stratum corneum of the child's skin and prevent dehydration. The stratum corneum is the outer layer of the skin and protects against dehydration and infections. Bathing keeps this layer intact better than showering.

Choose a mild and greasy product

If you prefer to shower with your child, choose a mild and greasy product that does not dry out the skin. Always read the information on the product and choose a soap-free shower gel or a mild baby shampoo.

A hot bath as a remedy for a cold

For years, the wisdom has been on the street that a hot bath helps against a cold. The idea is that the hot steam clears the nasal passages and the child then feels better. But is this really true?

The research

Research has been done on the effects of a hot bath on a cold. This study shows that taking a hot bath can indeed help relieve the symptoms of a cold. The hot steam clears the nasal passages, making the child feel more comfortable.

Add oil or magnesium salt flakes

To make the bath even more pleasant, you can add oil or magnesium salt flakes to it water. Magnesium salt flakes are extracted from the purest source in the world, the Zechstein sea clay. This is a shallow sea that has been closed off from the outside world millions of years ago. Due to the high concentration of magnesium in the flakes, the body is stimulated to absorb magnesium. This is good for the muscles and the nervous system. You can also spread the flakes on the skin.

Conclusion

It's important to understand why kids enjoy bath time and how to go about it. Bath time is a moment of relaxation and fun where children can relax their muscles. It is important to give control to the child and provide distractions. As you can see, there are many ways to make bath time fun for kids.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.