Diaper changes can seem like an unavoidable distraction from real connection with babies. However, with up to twelve newborn diapers a day and still up to seven toddler changes daily, parents can make the most of that time by using it as an opportunity for bonding, language development, and even play.

Making the Most of Routines: Narration

Even from the time they’re teeny tiny, infants are curious observers and driven participants as they engage with their world. Parents can take advantage of babies’ curiosity by narrating the process and even involving them in it. This might be as simple as noting aloud to baby, “I’m going to change your diaper now. Let’s lay you down on the changing pad. I’m unsnapping your onesie – one, two, three snaps!” Parents can even narrate some of the less pleasant steps to take a little of the sting out. Simply acknowledging, “Oh, that wipe is cold on your bottom, isn’t it?” can be reassuring to baby. Though it might seem unnatural at first, consistent narration of the entire routine will help her language development and cognitive growth. One day, you might let your child know, “I’m going to take off your diaper,” and be surprised to notice her lifting her hips slightly in response!

Making the Most of Routines: Participation

Even babies as young as five or six months old might enjoy choosing their diaper from a basket, holding the tube of diaper cream, or pulling a wipe from the container. As with process narration, be sure to let babies know what part you’d like their help with by saying something like, “Would you like to pull a wipe out for me?” Older babies might even be able to participate more actively, perhaps by pulling the tabs to unfasten their diaper, or by helping you hold the wipe to clean themselves. Certainly, babies might not be inclined to “help” every single time, but an opportunity to participate will likely invite more cooperation with the process.

Making the Most of Routines: Autonomy

As little ones become older, asking them to lay still for multiple daily changes can become more and more challenging. Though it might be tempting to resort to distractions or tricks to simply get them to comply, parents can invite cooperation by putting some of the power in the toddler’s hands. Simply taking notice of proper timing is helpful. Allow her to complete a task before whisking her off for a change. You could note this to her by telling her, “When you’re finished with your block tower, I’m going to change your diaper.” If she’s old enough to communicate her preferences, you might even offer her a choice: “Do you want me to change your diaper now, or in five minutes?” Toddlers who can stand confidently might even enjoy stand-up diapering. As challenging as it may sound, once mastered, many parents find that stand-up diapering is faster, cleaner, and a much better alternative to wrestling a wiggly toddler on a changing table!

It’s never too early to start using these strategies with your baby, but it’s also never too late to revamp your diapering routine. At any age, diaper changes can become another avenue for bonding with your child, rather than a distraction from it. By taking advantage of this time with your child, you’re both more likely to have a pleasant time — and you might even find yourself looking forward to the next change