My kids both LOVE the bathtub. Even now that they are old enough to use the shower if they choose, they still love the comfort and warmth of a good ol’ fashioned soak in the tub. They still make “potions” out of soap and water. They still love to blow bubbles. They still love bath toys and bath bombs and making a ridiculously wet mess of our bathroom. But even though they’re getting older, bath tub safety is still on my mind as a parent…and especially this month, because January is Bath Awareness Month! 
It’s a great time to refresh the rules of the bath, make sure your kiddos know what is expected of them, and make sure the bathroom is set up for safety.
Here are 5 tips to help keep your kids safe in the bath:
- Under 4? Stay in the room! Kids can drown in as little as 2 inches of water…barely enough to cover their toes. Nothing can protect them better than supervision, so if your child is under 4 years of age, make sure you’re in the bathroom keeping close tabs on their time in the tub.
- “Baby-proof” faucet handles, shower caddies, drains and other “danger” areas. It’s easy to remember to baby-proof when your child is actually an infant…but as they get older, it’s easy to forget there are still dangers in the tub for toddlers and young children. Hitting their head against a hard faucet or shower caddy can be dangerous, and painful! Make sure you take a look around your bathtub for any “hidden” dangers.
- Non-slip mats. Falls in the bathtub are common for all ages, including adults. Having a non-slip mat on the bottom of the tub can help prevent a fall.
- Test the temp. Water temperature is finicky, and it may feel cool enough for your hand but be too hot to actually put your body in. The temperature may also adjust as it fills up. No matter what, it’s a good rule of thumb to make sure the water is in the tub before you have your child get in. This way you can help make sure the temperature is just right.
- Keep the water manageable. No need to fill to the brim (especially if your kids like to splash).
We hope these tips help make bathtime a bit safer for you and your family.