4 Reasons Why You Should Discipline Your Child While They’re In the Bath
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Parents have it hard. From figuring out what your kids will like to eat, what school to send your kids to, keeping track of their ever changing favorite colors and cartoons, they also have to contend with the never ending tantrums the kids may have at any given moment. There are different reasons for your child’s bad mood. Maybe it’s because they are sleepy, tired or hungry. Or maybe it’s simply because they want your attention. Whatever the case may be, it’s up to the parents to discipline your tiny tots. This however, may be easier said than done. Not only is it important to figure out how to discipline your kids but when you do it may be just as crucial. Parents can make various mistakes when disciplining their children, with one of them being the timing of these discussions. There’s an ideal moment and setting for having serious conversations with your child, and that’s during their bath time. It may sound unconventional, but it’s worth considering. Here are four compelling reasons to consider disciplining your child while they are in the bath!
1. Reprimanding Your Child When Your Emotions Are High May Have Negative Consequences
This little titbit may come in handy the next time you want to lash out at your little one for running away from the playground just to mess with you. As frustrating as it may be, it’s best to reserve the scolding and conversation for later as you may still be in fight or flight mode and that outburst of adrenaline may lend to the way you speak to your child. Discipling your child when you are angry and not thinking rationally is a big no-no. You are more likely to say or do something that you may regret later. The best thing to do is to put an immediate stop to their bad behavior by saying what they did was wrong and postone the longer discussion of how they are wrong for a later time. Try reopening the subject in a calmer surrounding when your child cannot leave the room and is in a place to listen to you, like the bath.
2. Lack Of Distractions
Bath time involves a single activity, free from the distractions of iPads or TVs, and we certainly hope it stays that way since electricity and water don’t mix well. This means you have your child’s full and undivided attention. It’s a perfect setting, especially for children aged 3 and older, when your objective is to have a focused conversation with them. As long as you don’t let too much time elapse between the incident and the bath chat, you’re all set!
Put them in a positive mindset with some bath bubbles and splashes and get into discussing what happened earlier on in the day. Give them examples of how they could have reacted better in order to express themselves in that situation or explain to them why doing a particular action could put them in danger.
3. Bath Time Offers Emotional Benefits To Your Child
Bathing daily is essential for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, but did you know that a relaxing bath can also cleanse you emotionally? Allow us to clarify; we’re not suggesting ancient water rituals for your child. Bath time serves as a nurturing environment where kids can immerse themselves in the sensations of touch, language, and play. The sensation of water on their skin, combined with soothing scents, can help them unwind. Furthermore, the gentle touch of their parents can lower their heart rate and blood pressure, promoting relaxation. This peaceful state enables them to pay closer attention to their parents, which is quite remarkable!
4. Allow Your Child To Share Their Feelings
Part of creating a safe space for your child is allowing them to share their thoughts, feelings and experiences without the fear of being reprimanded without reason. Give your child the chance to explain themselves. It’s important to ask them what they were trying to do at the moment and what they were feeling. When they are talking to you, listen intently and don’t interrupt them. After they are done venting you can take things into consideration and explain matters to them patiently.
Discipling your kids doesn’t have to be dramatic, traumatizing and awful. It can be done in a calm manner in a peaceful environment and still beget the same results. The next time your little one is out of line, wait till bath time to bring it up and come up with a solution together. Happy parenting!
