Bathing your baby can be a very happy, playful time for both you and your infant, especially as he gets older. But it is not always like that from the beginning. If your baby starts to cry while being bathed, you can calm him by quietly talking to him or singing to him while you are bathing him. Your baby will get used to your calm voice and loving touch and will respond in a positive way. Bathtime usually becomes funtime at about 3 months of age.

Just a quick word on safety. ALWAYS check the temperature of the water before you put your child in a bath. Although we get in the habit of doing this with an infant, it is a habit which we forget as the child gets older. For example, you might fall into the bad habit of turning on the water, adjusting the temperature, filling the tub and immersing your child in the tub without rechecking the temperature. Or, you or your child might accidentally bump the hot water controls. This might result in an accidental scald-burn upon the child's immersion. If you place your child in the tub and he begins to scream, immediately take him out and check the temperature of the water.

Also, it is a good idea to check the temperature setting on your water heater. Many times this is set at 160°F and this is so hot that it will result in a scald-burn. You should manually reset your water heater to no higher than 120°F to prevent accidental scalding. Again, if you place your child in the tub and he lets out a piercing scream, immediately check the temperature of the water to make sure that it is temperate.

Before you bathe your baby, get out everything you will need for the bath: soap, shampoo, a dry towel and fresh clothes for your baby. Keep everything close by so you will not have to let go of your baby to reach anything. Gently place your baby in the tub and begin to wash her. Gently wash the front of your baby, then between her legs, wiping from front to back and then rinse to remove the soap. Turn your baby over and wash her back and rinse again with water. Finally, with a baby shampoo, you may shampoo your baby's scalp. Do not be afraid to rub over the anterior fontanelle (soft spot) or posterior fontanelle. These fontanelles are protected by a thick fibrous layer of tissue, and rubbing over them will not harm your baby.

When you have finished the bath and shampoo, pick your baby up using both hands, taking care because your baby will be slippery. Wrap your baby immediately in a towel or wrapper and dry him thoroughly. Dress your baby immediately after his bath to prevent his getting chilled.