Taking a shower to encourage development

If you are bored with bathing your child in a bath tub, a shower might be just the right option.

Why is a shower good for your child?
• The streams from the shower feel like playing in the rain, which makes it more fun to play with and encourages him to take a shower on his own.

• The pressure from the shower feels like a massage. Use the shower head to massage your child's body to help him relax.

• A shower can stimulate blood flow and make your child more alert. Since it is so much fun, it also makes him happier, and in turn, that stimulates his growth hormone. Happy children also learn better and develop faster.

How to stimulate your child's development during a shower (1-3 years)
• Use the right pressure – if it is too strong, it can be painful.

• For small children, you might put him in a bath tub and use the shower to fill the tub and clean your child's body at the same time.

• If you don't want to use a tub, place a non-slip mat on the floor where your child stands to prevent slipping and falling.

• Affix the shower head at the right height for your child so your child can take a shower without having to use one hand to hold the shower head.

• During the shower, teach your child how to use soap and shampoo, or sing songs about shower time to teach him the steps.

Tip on using a shower
• Choose a shower head with adjustable pressure and water distribution to find the right pressure for your child.

• Teach your child not to put the shower head directly in his face, and tell him not to open his eyes and mouth when water is on his face. The pressure from the shower head can be too strong and water might get into his eyes or nose.