Splish, Splash, Safety First!
Guest: Jaden Weil, Second Year Undergraduate Student at the University of Virginia
January is National Bath Safety Month which makes it the perfect time to refresh your routine! Bath time can be a special moment of fun, bonding, and calm, but it’s also a time when safety matters most. Whether your child loves splashing or needs a little encouragement, there are simple ways to ensure bath time is a safe, soothing part of the day. Here’s how to keep little ones squeaky clean and safe in the tub:
Stick to a routine: Bathtime is more predictable, fun and safe when it happens around the same time every day. Try keeping it right before bed to help your child wind down and maybe even pair it with a short book or lullaby after drying off for a cozy transition to sleep.
Check the water temperature: A safe bath starts with the right water temperature. Always test the water with your elbow or wrist, it should feel warm, not hot. Never rely on your child to judge the temperature even if they “like it hot”. Also consider installing an anti-scald device on your faucet or shower head.
Stay within arms’ reach: Drowning can happen very quickly, even in shallow water. It is key that you always stay close enough to touch, never leave your child unattended, even for a minute. Leave your phone out of reach to avoid distractions. Make sure to keep everything you need including towels, toys, and soap within easy reach before you start.
Make it slip-free: Wet surfaces are very slippery for little feet. Using a non-slip mat inside and outside the bath is crucial for preventing slips, trips, and falls in and around the bathtub. Try to keep shampoo and soap off the bottom of the tub to reduce slick spots. Teach your child to sit in the tub, not stand or jump. For infants, consider a bath seat.
Use Kid-Friendly Products: Some products can irritate skin or sting eyes. Make sure to choose tear-free for all kids. For those with eczema or sensitive skin, consider fragrance-free bath products. Let kids help with rinsing and scrubbing using soft washcloths or bath mitts and add fun with safe bath toys, just make sure they’re mold-free and cleaned regularly so that bathtime can feel less like a chore and more like play.