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Making Bath Time Fun

Expert Q&A

By , About.com Guide

Updated July 02, 2005

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Q. My 11 month old son has now noticed his penis while taking a bath. He looks at it, touches it, cries and immediately wants out of the tub. It is not sore, because he does not do this during a cleaning at diaper changes. Any suggestions on what I should do for him? J, York, PA

A. The fact that he doesn't seem bothered at other times is probably a good sign that there is nothing medically wrong that is causing this new problem...

It may just be a behavioral issue though, and not really because he has 'noticed his penis.'

In addition to stranger anxiety and separation anxiety, many older infants and toddlers develop a fear of taking baths.

Whether or not it is a new fear, it may help to distract your child when you begin the bath, like with some new bath toys or a washcloth puppet. Making sure that the bath water isn't too hot or too cold and using a mild bath soap might also be helpful.

It may also help to use a washcloth to cover your child's penis or maybe even let him take a bath in a 'swimmer' type diaper for a few days.

If those tips don't work, you could try to take a bath with your child or switch to sponge baths for a few weeks.

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