Learning to Wash Myself
Here's What To Do
1
During bathtime, give me an extra washcloth with soap so I can imitate you as you wash me.
2
Name and talk about parts of the body as they are washed.
3
Let me practice washing dolls or toys in the tub.
4
Show me how to rinse myself off. Let me dump the water on myself if it doesn't upset me.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Together with me, swirl your hands through the warm bathwater.
E
Engage:
- "I'm going to soap up your chin, your neck, and then your shoulders."
- "I'm washing this leg. Can you wash your other leg?"
E
Encourage:
- Show me how to get soapy bubbles on all the parts of my body.
- Talk naturally about genitals as you would naturally name or label other parts of my body.
R
Reflect:
- What bathtime skills do I still need to learn to be able to wash myself (with you always there supervising me for safety)?
Not quite ready?
Help me learn to wash my hands.
Ready for more?
Help me learn to wash my hair in the bath.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to help wash themselves in the bath.