Changing a toddler can present you with a problem; toddlers are busy discovering their mobility and rarely want to stop for a diaper change. The result is either a squirming, wriggly mess, or a diaper that goes unchanged as long as possible. Stop the diaper-changing wars with your toddler by making the diaper change funny, distracting your toddler for the few short minutes that it takes you to give him a fresh diaper. Arm yourself with small toys, all the necessary supplies and a humorous attitude.
Step 1
Let your toddler know that she has two minutes before you change her diaper. Announcing the diaper change lets her know the sequence of events so you're not just pulling her away from her current activity to change her. A two-minute warning can help you stop any resistance before it starts.
Step 2
Arrange the supplies you'll need for changing your toddler's diaper in the same area so they're all within reach. Diapers, wipes and rash ointment can be placed in a basket for easy access and movement around your home. Changing a diaper on the floor with a changing mat is usually the best idea, as your wiggly toddler shouldn't be trusted on an elevated changing table. Get your toddler involved by asking him to hand you the diaper or to lie down on the mat so he feels like he has jobs and is an active part of the task, suggests Nicki Heskin, early childhood editor for BellaOnline.com.
Step 3
Try to remove as much of the mess with the soiled diaper as possible to make the cleanup go faster. When you remove the diaper, swipe it along your toddler's bottom so you only need a few wipes to complete the job, suggests TheLaborOfLove.com. Getting through the diaper change quickly will teach your toddler that it only takes her away from playtime for a few minutes.
Step 4
Sing your toddler a song, or have him point out his body parts to distract him while you change his diaper. You can also have him point out your facial features as you bend over him. You may also have a "diaper-changing song" on your computer or phone that you play and sing along with whenever it's time to change a diaper.
Step 5
Reserve a small basket of toys specifically for diaper changes. Choose those that provide lots of activities--a light-up rattle, a set of keys that make noise or a noisy farm animal--that will help keep your child occupied as you quickly and cleanly finish the job.
Step 6
Praise your toddler for being a good girl during the diaper change so she learns from positive reinforcement and subsequent diaper changes become easier.
Things You'll Need
- Wipes
- Rash ointment
- Small toys
