When you and your spouse take your child to the beach, you envision splashing around in the water or holding hands while jumping over waves in joyful laughter. However, when the child sees the water, they cling tightly to their mother’s neck or scream when their father dips them into the water.
At home, bath time is just as challenging. So, what can you do?
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| “I am not sure if I like water or not” (Photo: webtretho). |
First and foremost, it’s important not to force the child. Forcing them into the water will only increase their fear of it and also of the adults’ attitudes.
Pay attention to understanding the reasons for the child’s fear. It could be due to the cold water or strong waves. Allow the child to gradually get accustomed to the water naturally, such as building sandcastles at the water’s edge, letting their feet touch the gentle waves while playing, or having them hug their father from behind while sitting facing the waves. This way, the child will gradually become familiar with the ocean and, from familiarity, may eventually find enjoyment.
At home, if the child is hesitant about taking a bath, try to identify the cause. Was it because an adult let soapy water sting their eyes, or did they pour cold water on them too soon after bathing? Everything for a child should be done slowly, combining work with play, transforming the idea of “having to take a bath” into “going to play with water”. Therefore, the child will enjoy bathing more if there are a few toys, like a floating duck or dog, in the bathtub.
It’s also important to distinguish between a child being afraid of water and simply not wanting to bathe because they are engrossed in play.
Here are a few things adults should keep in mind when bathing the child: Do not place any glass or fragile objects in the bathtub as toys. Never leave the child alone in a bathtub with water, even if the water level is low. Always keep an eye on the child when they are at the beach. Consider lining the bottom of the bathtub with a non-slip mat. For children, water is a source of joy but can also be a cause of accidents.
