Strategies for Washing Hair

ontrackwithot
Sep 26, 2024
2 min read

This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission should you choose to make a purchase using my link.

Washing hair can be a challenging task for many children, especially those who are sensitive to water or uncomfortable with the sensation of tilting their head back. Here are some strategies to help make this process easier and more enjoyable:

Use Visual Cues

Ceiling Stickers: Place fun, colorful stickers or decals on the ceiling above the bathtub. Encourage the child to look at the stickers while you wash their hair.
- My son LOVES these Bluey wall decals!
Mirrors: Use a hand-held mirror or position a wall-mounted mirror so the child can look at themselves while tilting their head back.

Make It a Game

Waterfall Game: Play a game where you create a "waterfall" with the shower head or a cup, and the child has to look up to see the "waterfall" coming down.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise and Rewards: Offer praise and small rewards for tilting their head back. Use a sticker chart or a reward system to track their progress and celebrate their achievements.
Encouragement: Provide verbal encouragement and reassurance. Let the child know they are doing a great job and that you are there to support them.

Desensitization and Gradual Exposure

Practice Outside of Bath Time: Practice the head-tilting motion outside of the bath. Have the child tilt their head back while lying on the bed or couch, or during a fun activity.
Gradual Exposure: Gradually introduce the sensation of water running over their head. Start with small amounts of water and gradually increase the amount as the child becomes more comfortable.

Engage the Child in the Process

Let Them Help: Encourage the child to participate in the process. Let them hold the shower head, pour water from a cup, or help with applying shampoo. This can increase their sense of control and cooperation.
Explain the Steps: Explain each step of the hair-washing process to the child. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and make the experience more predictable.

Use Alternative Methods

Hats and Visors: Use a bath visor or hat designed to keep water out of the child’s face. These can help the child feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety about getting water in their eyes.
Handheld Shower head: Use a handheld shower head to control the flow of water and direct it away from the child’s face. This can give the child a greater sense of control and reduce discomfort.

By using these strategies, you can help make hair washing a more comfortable experience for your child and help them feel more at ease and confident during hair washing. With consistent practice, these strategies helped take my son from tears to smiles when washing hair in 2 weeks! Every child is different and will progress at different rates. It’s also important to watch their reactions and adjust your approach as needed.