Training our babies to adulthood may seem endless. Especially figuring out how to teach a child to wipe properly after a bowel movement.
While we think that ditching the use of diapers is the most remarkable milestone in parenthood, we may be in for a surprise.
Another is getting them on a potty training schedule and teaching them to wipe their bottom.
Thus, let’s find out how to teach a child to wipe properly after a bowel movement.
Nevertheless, we often wonder if they are old enough to learn about this critical hygienic element.
Once your infant keeps telling you when they are done with their bowel movement, it may be time to take the next step.
It could be when they are approximately two and a half or even three years old.
Every child is different, and there is no pressure in getting them to do it right sooner. This article will guide you on how to teach your infant to wipe his bottom properly after a bowel movement.
How to teach a child to wipe their bottom
Guiding your child to independence when it comes to toilet matters may not be easy. The good thing is that it is achievable. You could consider the following:
Get your wiping tool
Your baby is probably done with his biological process.
Typically, the toilet paper is in the dispenser.
If it is not too high, tell your baby to tear a piece. Since it’s a new thing, they may not know how to go about it. You could demonstrate how to unroll and tear.
Let him lay it on his palms
To ensure that the paper covers a larger surface when wiping, you must ensure that it fits onto the infant’s palms.
Furthermore, you wouldn’t want them to soil their hands with some poo. It is crucial to teach this from day one.
Target the bottom
You will find out if your child is ready for this new process here. Coordination and motor skills are essential.
The first steps are not much of a big deal until you get here. Your child has no idea what he is doing, so getting the paper at the middle of his bottom may be hard.
Nevertheless, no one becomes a pro on day one, so no need to give up.
The appropriate wiping technique
Especially for baby girls, it is essential to do it right from front to back, when it comes to the wiping technique. You need to emphasize this to prevent messes. Moreover, it could lead to urinary tract infections.
You could also get a doll and demonstrate. Afterward, let them do it too.
Is the bottom clean?
It is essential to teach your baby to wipe his bottom and check the toilet paper before ditching it in the toilet.
To ensure that his bottom is clean, he must repeatedly wipe until the paper is clear of poo. Remember to tell them not to re-use toilet paper.
Until they get it right, it may be necessary to keep checking their bum for any skid marks.
Flush
Flushing the toilet at this age is probably some complicated algebraic equation for them. You should help them get the poo rolling.
Let them pull their pants
Once you are done teaching a child to wipe his bottom, tell them to put on their pants. Even the minor and most apparent details are vital.
Hand washing
Your infant must learn that washing hands after visiting the toilet is a must.
They should use soap and thoroughly scrub their hands. Afterward, they should rinse and use a clean towel to dry their hands.
The mastery takes time
You may teach your child today, and he seems to be at the top of the game.
On the next day, it may be the opposite, which is still okay.
Remember to give them time as they sharpen their motor skills to perfection. Your encouragement may help. It may be best if your baby learns to wipe his bottom properly before he joins kindergarten.
Stress on hygiene
Just like washing hands before eating or taking a bath, you need to tell your young one that wiping his bottom gets rid of dirt, and therefore, it is also essential.
Once they understand this, you may be closer to your achievement.
Should you limit your child’s toilet paper?
Well, it is understandable if you decide to do it.
After all, children can overuse and waste it. Nevertheless, you can let them know that it is essential to fold the toilet paper efficiently and wipe until there is no poo visible.
You could also help him count the number of squares to use.
Wet wipes instead of toilet paper?
In the beginning, toilet paper may feel hard compared to the baby wipes they are used to.
However, you could interchange them until they are used to them. Generally, wet wipes can do the job better than their equivalent.
Keep in mind that if you decide to use wet wipes, they should be flushable. So that once your baby is done, everything can go down the drain.
Accompany actions with words
Speaking to your child as you help him can be very helpful.
You could make comments such as ‘good,’ whenever they wipe their bottom. It will motivate them to do it next time to perfection.
Factors that may affect your bottom-wiping lessons
Financial position
Although wet wipes are not costly, toilet paper is cheaper.
And the cents spent make a difference in the long run. However, if your baby seems to dislike the idea of using toilet paper, the ball may no longer be in your hands until they are older.
Available time
Children are likely to empty their bowels during the day.
There is no rule that they can’t do it at night.
However, if you are always at work during the day, he may not get the confidence or motivation to wipe his bottom correctly.
As a result, he may never get it done properly, or it may take more time. Instead, you could ensure you get a professional nanny who cares about your child’s welfare. It remains a challenge for most parents.
Final thoughts; How to teach a child to wipe properly after a bowel movement
Teaching your child how to wipe his bottom properly may pose challenges.
But as a caregiver, exercising patience is crucial as the opposite could discourage your child from ever doing it well.
At the same time, kids may never do it right until they are older, and that is okay. So, dirty underwear shouldn’t make you blow a fuse. Instead, monitor their progress and give them feedback.
