- Hold your baby on the top of your forearm with your hand between its legs and its tummy and head against your forearm.
Approach TummyTub with the baby’s head facing towards the tub as not to startle. - Slowly lower your baby into the water. The hand that is between the baby’s legs goes all the way to the bottom of the tub. Seat your baby securely on the bottom of the tub.
- Position your baby by tilting them backwards so the spine leans against the wall. If done correctly, legs will assume a safe seated position with feet slightly up against the wall. You can support the head by placing one hand under the chin to prevent swallowing of water.
- With your free hand you can begin to wash your baby from the top down: with the face first, followed by hair and downwards from there. Use water without soap for the face and a gentle or natural baby wash for the body. A small cup or washcloth or sponge can be used to rinse your baby’s hair. Your baby will like the feeling of warm water being poured over their head. Immersion in the warm water will encourage relaxation and a sense of reassurance. Take the time to play with each other and feel deeply bonded with your child.
For harder to reach areas, gently lift your baby, being sure to support the head on your forearm, wash and then gently seat the baby back in the tub. Older babies and toddlers can sit and stand for washing and love the feeling of having their own personal hot tub. Don’t we all! - To pull your baby out of the tub, gently place your right hand around his left leg with your thumb in the groin and the rest of your hand under the bottom. Use your left hand to support the head and upper back. Place baby gently on the changing pad and use a towel to dry your baby thoroughly. Pay special attention to all the folds, arm pits, neck, and knees to avoid skin rash. Start with the face area and end with the bottom. Apply baby or nappy cream if you are using it. A baby massage can be added to complete the treatment. Don’t forget to put on a fresh nappy before your baby has time to soil themself.
- After use, empty the tub as soon as possible (perhaps even use the water for your plants!) and simply rinse with water. Clean only with a gentle, nonabrasive cleaner.
WARNINGS
•ALWAYS beware that any bath tub with water is a drowning risk.
•ALWAYS keep the infant within adult’s reach.
•NEVER lift this product with an infant in it.
•ALWAYS bathe the infant using as little water as possible.
•NEVER allow other children to substitute for adult supervision.
