Get everything ready before you put your baby in the tub. First, get the soap, washcloth, towel, shampoo and toys together. Then run the water. Test it on the inside of your wrist to be sure the water is warm but not hot. If the water feels hot on your wrist, it is too hot for your baby.
When everything is ready, place your baby in the water. Be sure to stay close to your baby while he is in the water. Never leave your baby alone when he is in the tub. Do not turn away from your baby when he is in the tub. A good rule is always to keep one hand on your baby the whole time he is in the tub. He could slip under the water and drown, or he could slip and hit his head.
Baths can be fun and messy, so enjoy this time with your baby. Play games with him. Let him enjoy the water. Because playing in the tub can be messy, put rugs or towels on the floor by the tub so the floor does not get wet. You or your baby could slip on a wet floor.
Let your baby splash all he wants. As you wash him, talk and sing to him. Give him a cup or toy that he can fill up with water and pour out. Put floating toys in the water for him to reach for. Reaching for a toy will help him learn to use his hand to find it.
Give your baby his own washcloth. Encourage him to wash himself as you bathe him. You can make your baby's bath a fun time for both of you.
These tips were adapted from the U.S. Department of Education.
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