Adult Supervision

• Adult supervision is the most important way parents can keep bath time safe. Do not move more than an arm's length from the children in case they slip or trip in the tub, which can result in injuries. Additionally, older siblings should not be allowed to supervise babies in the bathtub. Do not substitute baby bath seats for supervision. The bath seats are not designed with safety in mind. They can easily tip over, which can injure the baby.
  
  

Preparation

• When preparing for bath time, gather all of the materials within arm's reach of the bathtub. These include soap, towels and toys. Have enough toys for both children to allow them to occupy themselves while you bathe the other sibling. Remove blow dryers, curling irons and other tools that a small child can pull down on himself. Additionally, have the items you need after the bath ready as well. Any creams, lotions, diapers and clothing should be laid out where the children will get ready for bed.
  
  

Safety

• Remind your toddler and preschooler the rules of bath time, which should include not standing in the bathtub or splashing water. Use the appropriate amount of water for the youngest child. If a baby will be in the bathtub, use only 2 or 3 inches of warm, not hot, water. The water should be warm to the touch for older children as well. The water should be tested before the children get into the tub. A way to prevent the bathwater being too hot is to turn down the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, if the siblings are fighting in the bathtub, separate baths should be given. Fighting in the tub is dangerous because of the increased risk of slipping and falling. Bathtubs should be drained as soon as possible. The bathtub remains a drowning risk until the water is drained.
  
  

Sibling Help

• Older children can feel left out when a new baby arrives. The sibling can participate in bathing the baby. Assign the older sibling the toes or hands to wash. These areas are easy for a child to clean without hurting the baby. Ask the sibling to grab a towel or other items you might have forgotten. Thank him and let him know what a big help he has been.