19 Month Old Refuses Bath

Hi R.:
Your little guy wouldn't be the first to be a bit frightened of A bath.It could be anything.Something as simple as hating getting water or a little soap in his eyes.However,I think it's the chair.Children hate feeling confined,especially when they get to be his age.I'd back off and just wash him down with a warm wash cloth and soap,then after a week,I'd get rid of the chair,get a rubber mat for the bottom of the tub,and I'd get in with him.Take some toys or empty platic bottles for the tub and make it fun for him.Once he sees that its safe for you,it will build up his confidence,and he will feel more at ease.I wish you and your reluctant little guy the best.J. M

Great advice from the previous responses. Try fun stuff like colored foam soap or soap crayons. Little squirty toys work great too. You can even use stuff you already have such as measuring cups/spoons, strainers, basters, etc.

Blessings.

My son is a water baby and at some point, I think around 17 months he fought me tooth and nail on taking a bath. It was a little scary, but here's what I did.

I lost the chair entirely and jumped in the tub with him. I'd get in first and my Mom (wearing a swimsuit) would hold him and show him that Mommy was okay in the water and then he'd get in with me. After a couple of weeks he was okay wiht the water.

I agree with Julia, that chair can be a smidge restricting and to a little on maybe even intimidating. Just remember kids learn by example, show him there is nothing to fear and he will get it.

Let him do some sensory/messy activities in the bath tub when it is empty to get him used to it. Don't be afraid to hop in too!