How to Wash a Toddler's Hair

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:WashToddlerHair
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How to Wash a Toddler's Hair

Introduction

Toddlers have very strong ideas about what they like and dislike ' unfortunately, hair-washing is often one of the things they don't like. Here's how to get them clean with a minimum of fuss.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Keep in mind, many toddlers are scared of loud running water: run the bath before they get in, if possible, and have rinsing water ready in a jug nearby.
2

Step Two

Keep the water out of her eyes with goggles or a visor ' this makes it harder for you to reach all the hair, but may make it easier to get the job done.
3

Step Three

Tell your child what you are doing before you do it ' a little explanation, even if she doesn't understand, can go a long way towards making the experience more comfortable for her.
4

Step Four

If possible, don't pour water over your child's head in large amounts ' use a wet washcloth or your hands to rinse a little bit at a time.
5

Step Five

Try the reclining method of shampooing and rinsing your child, if she will cooperate ' if she leans backwards in the tub, against you, or over a sink, you will be able to rinse her hair without getting water in her face.
6

Step Six

Be sure to use a gentle shampoo with a no-tears formula.
7

Step Seven

Turn hair washing into a game. Let your child lather her own head, or get into the tub yourself, and let her help you wash your hair.
8

Step Eight

Avoid making it an issue ' if the child refuses to have her hair washed, or becomes agitated, just back off and try again later.

Tips & Warnings

  • Offer a special toy or activity to coincide with hair washing ' this can be a wind-up tub toy, blowing bubbles, or anything else to distract your child from the experience.
  • Use just a tiny bit of shampoo ' you can always add more to get a good lather, and it's easier to rinse off quickly if you don't use too much.
  • Some shampoos, like some bubble baths, can cause rashes and urinary tract infections if children sit in the residue ' wash hair at the end of the bath, and rinse the child all over with fresh tap water when you take her out.
  • Don't wash your toddler's hair too often ' unless she gets food and dirt in it on a daily basis, once or twice a week should be adequate to keep her hair and scalp healthy.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Baby Blankets
  • Baby Shampoo
  • Safety Bathers
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