Best Way to Make Shampooing Easier

Most first-time parents are surprised when a fear of shampooing develops, yet it’s common. Shampoo as seldom as possible dur­ing this period. Once or twice a week is probably enough, unless your child has special problems. You can make a game out of hair washing by joining your child in the bathtub and pouring water over your head first. Or let your child wash a doll’s hair while you wash hers. Don’t force the issue or try to prove it doesn’t hurt. Instead, brush your child’s hair frequently (cover the brush with an old nylon stocking to help absorb oils), and occa­sionally wash hair with a damp washcloth. When you must shampoo, use a no-sting baby shampoo, and do the job quickly and matter-of-factly, praising your child for bravery. As difficult as this period is for both for you, remember that it too shall pass.

• Shampoo your child first, and then allow for playtime so the bath will end on a happy note.

• Try letting someone else be the shampooer (Dad, grandparent).
• Make shampoo sculptures in your child’s hair. Keep a hand mirror nearby for your child to admire the new “do”!
• Tell your child the story of a speck of dirt that gets tired, settles for a nap on your child’s head, and is joined by lots more specks, only to get washed out by Mom or Dad. Telling the story should last as long as the shampooing.
• Sing loud songs together throughout the whole process.
• Wrap your child in a big beach towel, and have her lie face-up in the kitchen counter with head over the sink. Use a sprayer if one’s available. The towel will hold your child steady, your closeness will provide security, and it will be easier for you to control the soap and water.

Keeping Shampoo Out of Eyes

• Put only a small amount of water in the tub so your child can lie down flat for shampooing.
• Fill a big plastic jug with water and let it sink to the bottom the tub. Your child can use it for a headrest. Or use your arm, to support your child’s head.
• Have your child lean back under the faucet for a quick, easy rinse. Or make rinsing fun by using a watering can.

• Place colorful stickers on the ceiling over the tub to keep your child’s attention during rinsing. Change stickers periodically if interest seems to wane.
• Use a sponge instead of a cup to control water when you rinse. (And try a sponge for applying shampoo. Soap won’t b so likely to run into eyes.)
• Use swim goggles to prevent soap and water from getting into your child’s eyes. Make a game of it by telling your child she looks like a frog. Have your child repeat, “Ribbit!”
• Give your hands and sponge names, and have them argue over who’s going to wash your child’s hair.
• Let your child control the hand-held shower hose.