Splish, splash, time to take a bath!

Description:
Leaning over the tub to wash your baby can leave you with soggy clothes and a sore back, but it can also be a wonderful chance to bond with your baby and discover the benefits of water play.

Once he can sit up by himself, it's time for your baby to graduate to the big tub. If you feel like it, put on your swim suit and join him. You'll avoid the aching back and have more fun.

Collect some bath toys to play with and some plastic cups. Show him how to splash and slap the water. He'll delight in the tactile sensations. Experiment with the toys, since babies love to discover which objects float and which sink. Watch your baby catch a bobbing toy and you'll witness a powerful look of mastery on his face. Show him how to pour water from cup to cup. If he's involved in the play, he won't even object when you wash his body and hair. For even more fun make it a bubble bath!

Step by Step:
1. Collect bath towels and toys.
2. Put your swim suit on for more fun.
3. Show your child how to play with the water, toys and cups.
4. Make bath time fun, as well as get clean time.
5. Sing songs like "Three Little Fishes."
6. Don't stay in so long that you get "prune skin."

Materials:
Towels and wash cloths
Bath toys and plastic cups