How to Cope With Diaper-Changing Struggles

By the end of a baby's first year, most parents wish they had six arms when changing their baby's diaper. These are strategies you can use to make diaper-changing time a little less of a struggle ... for everyone.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

1. Give a "two-minute warning" before it is time to change the diaper. This way, the baby can conclude his or her play instead of being interrupted.

2. Explain, even if you think you are being ignored, the need to stay still so that mom or dad can change the diaper. This is not a topic for discussion. Be strong and consistent.

3. Have supplies ready and within reach.

4. Allow safe, interesting objects at the diaper table for the baby to hold.

5. Play verbal games ("Where's mommy's nose?") or sing favorite songs to create a diversion while changing the diaper.

6. Try to change the diaper with the baby or toddler standing up, especially if the baby can lean against a wall.

7. Consider changing the diaper on a towel on the ground so that you do not have to worry about the baby struggling and falling.

8. Recruit another caregiver, if possible, to change the diaper. A fresh face may be just enough distraction and give you a needed break.

Tips & Warnings

• For a toddler, control may be the name of the game. If two adults are available, ask which diaper changer the toddler prefers.
• Be aware of whether sudden resistance to changing a diaper is because of diaper rash. Consult with your child's health-care provider on treatment.

Who Can Help:

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[daydreamgalaxy]

on 7/10/2009 5*s

[scheri]

on 9/25/2007 The key is distraction. If you learn to change a toddler standing up, they can go along playing at a table without being bothered at all. If they are being difficult laying down, give baby something new to play with when you change them. Anything that isn't plastic usually works well like real keys, wooden spoons, toothbrush, etc... (you don't have to worry they will get hurt because you are changing them. But, remember to take away the item when you set them free so they don't get hurt). It's a great time to explore something new and they usually don't cry when you take it away because they are so happy to be free to go explore other stuff.

[Allandra]

on 7/21/2007 I find that changing diapers is funny and challenging. The best thing you can do is have a great sense of humor and enjoy it. Yes, actually enjoy it because they do grow up so fast. Have everything at hand and whatever you do, have TABLE MAT underneath! I usually just change my baby on the floor since she tend to roll off faster than you can blink an eye. Flush away stinky balls of poo down the toilet if you can and if not, just wrap diapers in plastic bags.

[fenleyfam]

on 5/12/2007 If all else fails a good swat on the tushie usually does the trick. haha

[RoseyP]

on 4/25/2007 Watch your little one for ideas of things that really grab their attention. I found that my ceiling fan was a source of utter amazement to my baby, so now when she needs changing I position her changing mat directly under the fan and switch it on. I think it also helps to have a little routine so they know what you're about to do - make a display of getting the mat out, the wipes, opening or folding the nappy (diaper) and having a particular phrase (I always say, "bum-change time"). With everything ready before the baby is laid down, the change is very quick so it's ok if the distracting object only holds their attention for a few moments.