TEN Tips for Making Diaper Changes Easier

Make Diaper Changes Easier with these TEN Tips!

As babies grow into infants and infants develop into toddlers, diaper changes can become more and more challenging. Babies with new-found mobility don’t want to lie down and be still for a diaper change. Toddlers are always on the move, exploring and playing, which can make keeping them in one place for diaper changes a struggle. Anyone who has tried putting a clean diaper on a toddler who is doing a crocodile roll away from you knows that! Here are 10 tips that will hopefully make diaper changes a little easier for you and your baby!

1. Make sure your supplies are standing by before you bring your child into the equation – diaper opened, wipes accessible, diaper cream ready to dispense.
2. Position a mobile or interesting toy above your changing table or diapering area to hold your baby’s attention. Placing your infant on a play mat with dangling toys is also an option.
3. Make it fun! Sing a song, make funny faces, or tell a story – anything to draw the focus towards you and away from the task at hand.
4. Give them a fun toy or object to hold that they are only allowed to play with during diaper changes. A flashlight is a great option– as long as it isn’t shining in your face or theirs!
5. Try a different location. If you always do diaper changes on the bed, changing table, floor, etc, try switching it up for a new spot. The novelty may be enough to keep them still long enough for you to get the job done.
6. Give you child some control over the situation. Let them help pick out a diaper or pull out a few wipes (what kid doesn’t love to do that???).
7. Offer an incentive! “The faster we can get your clean diaper on, the more time we will have to play at the park when we get there.”
8. Let them know a diaper change is about to happen. It is frustrating and upsetting for a child to have their playtime interrupted without warning. For older children, tell them it is time for a clean diaper and offer to let them pick their favorite toy to bring with them.
9. Be patient and gentle. Your child can sense your emotions and will react accordingly. The more worked up you become about the situation, the more likely they are to resist.
10. Try a different position. Some toddlers may prefer to be changed while standing. Warning – this works best for wet diapers!!

Resisting diaper changes is often a phase that is eventually grown out of, however, keep in mind that for older children, it may be a readiness indicator for beginning potty training!

Do you have any strategies not listed here for a struggle-free diaper change? Share them in the comments!