Rub-a-Dub Co-Bathing in Our Tub

Welcome to the April 2012 Carnival of Natural Parenting: Kids and Personal Care
This post was written for inclusion in the monthly Carnival of Natural Parenting hosted by Code Name: Mama and Hobo Mama. This month our participants have shared stories, tips, and struggles relating to their children’s personal care choices.

See my little bath buddy? She’s pretty much the best :)

Co-bathing kind of fell into our laps. Jemma started her baths in a little whale, but soon she graduated into the real tub. She loved (and still does) to splash around, but wasn’t too steady in the beginning. So, mama started joining her. I became her chair, her recliner, her reading buddy, her bath time snack, and of course, her personal spa attendant.
 
I still cherish my alone baths full of bath salts and a good book, but most baths Jemma joins me and I wouldn’t change it for anything. Bath time is more than just a time to get squeaky clean, it’s her time to learn about the world and I’m blessed to be a part of that journey.

  • We practice conversation by visiting about our day
  • We look at magazines where she points out every animal and person she sees
  • We identify body parts – eyes, nose, ears, hair, teeth, belly buttons
  • We learn about keeping water in the tub
  • We practice safe climbing in and out
  • We play with boats, squirt bottles, and catch water bugs
  • We blow bubbles and make fish faces

Lately, Jemma has been a super snuggler during bath time and it has been so sweet to have her relax in my arms, stretched over my growing belly. It’s like I’m snuggling my two children at the same time – one on the inside and one on the outside :)

For additional reading … Here’s another mama’s co-bathing story and A discussion on when to stop co-bathing.

Do you co-bathe? What has your experience been like?
***

Carnival of Natural Parenting -- Hobo Mama and Code Name: MamaVisit Code Name: Mama and Hobo Mama to find out how you can participate in the next Carnival of Natural Parenting!
Please take time to read the submissions by the other carnival participants:
(This list will be live and updated by afternoon April 10 with all the carnival links.)
Photobucket
… Oh so many ways to follow along …
BlogGFCBlog Lovin’FacebookTwitterPinterestVote
(Visited 4,958 times, 1 visits today)

You May Also Like:

Comments

  1. says

    We love mama-baby baths! We have a big jet tub, so we don't often do it (uses too much water), but it's so much fun when we do. Brixton lays against me and kicks his legs like crazy. I love his enthusiasm. We stay in there about 45 minutes, well past the time fingers and toes begin to prune. :)

  2. says

    I love all of the things she is learning during bath times :) I still bathe with 4yo Kieran, and I don't see an end to that anytime soon. We'll just monitor comfort levels – ours and theirs.

  3. Growing Slower says

    Our bath time routine looks very similar to yours. I had no idea there was a proper term, but "Co-bathing" is the perfect word to describe it! I also loved how you were able to capture a family-friendly picture of that sweet time. I showed it to DH right away and told him he has to take one of BabyE and me together.

  4. Sheila says

    I love baths with my little boy. That was the only way we ever bathed his first year! Now I sometimes get in with him and sometimes not. The cutest is when my husband takes a bath with him! The two of them get so into their bathtime games.

  5. says

    "Bath time is more than just a time to get squeaky clean, it's her time to learn about the world and I'm blessed to be a part of that journey."Lovely, Gretchen. You both look so at ease in the bath together, simply sharing time and space. Thank you for an example of enjoying your baby. :)

  6. Jennifer Wenzel says

    Baths used to be a family affair here. To us, a shower or bath as always been a more than cleaning, but a time for connection. But as our family grew that has changed what it looks like. My boys bathe together. When things get out of hand during the day: we head for the tub. Thanks for sharing your tub time with us!

  7. Lyndsay says

    Beautiful post! Aodhan is almost 3 and we are still blissfully bathing together!

  8. ThatMamaGretchen says

    That makes me happy to know you're still going strong at 4 years old :)

  9. ThatMamaGretchen says

    Not all pictures have ended up family-friendly :) … but, yes, I'm so happy I have this one and hope to squeeze in a few more now that she is older!

  10. ThatMamaGretchen says

    Jemma is to the point where she prefers to have a bath buddy! One of these days we'll start practicing independent bath play (with me supervising, of course) :)

  11. ThatMamaGretchen says

    It really is super relaxing for both of us – I love that it isn't a rushed/stressful activity.

  12. ThatMamaGretchen says

    I have such fond memories of bath time with my sisters. I can't wait for Jemma to experience the same in the coming year!

  13. I-RIBBIT says

    I love that you co-bathe! I have been bathing/showering with my now 3 year old since she was a week old. We both cherish our time in the tub. I keep telling her that one day she will be wanting to bathe without me but she insists that she will never shower alone! ;) I just love all the ways you connect during bath time as well. Super sweet!

  14. I-RIBBIT says

    This is Hybrid Rasta Mama by the way!

  15. Gretchen says

    Our tub has jets too (one of my guilty pleasures) and Jemma loves the bubbles. She's been hearing the soft rumble since she was in utero so it has always been a relaxing sound for us both!

  16. Gretchen says

    Yay!

  17. Gretchen says

    Ha! I was wondering :) Of course she doesn't think she'll ever bathe alone, being with mama is WAY too much fun!

  18. Marisa @ Deliberate says

    Lovely to hear your sentiments about snuggling with your two children at once. We love co-bathing and it is always such a great way for me to slow down and be present. Thanks for sharing this.

  19. says

    So cute! It sounds like such a great place for them to learn, they have our undivided attention in a small space and I bet Jemma loves that time with you! We do co-bathing, too, and it gets pretty crowded with the four of us in a small tub! It's a way for daddy to spend some fun time with us after being gone all day, plus It's easier to handle two babies with two parents. I think I'll look for a jacuzzi-sized tub at our next home :)

  20. ThatMamaGretchen says

    4 in a tub! How awesome!!! That totally makes sense with double the babies. There is no way we would all fit in ours :)

  21. ThatMamaGretchen says

    Yes! It will also be fun to see how things evolve with a toddler and a baby at the end of the summer!

  22. hnimble says

    This is a great way to make bath time secure and fun for a little one. Especially if they are insecure in water as my little one was at first. I bath her in a baby bath tub but I think it's high time to co-shower/bath. At the grandparents they have a really nice old fashioned bathtub and this will be a next-times-visit-must to bathe together!

  23. hnimble says

    Ursula Ciller (not hnimble) sorry about that!

  24. ThatMamaGretchen says

    Jem had a bout of some water fear a few months ago, but co-bathing has definitely helped her work through it.

  25. Mamapoekie says

    We have been co bathing with our bubs since they were born. We never really bothered with the baby tubs. I found it much fuss and with the nex baby, he was simply too big for a baby bath. Now, we're often three in the tub (me and the two kids), but the bathing organization depends on the day.

  26. jessicarogers says

    what a very sweet post. :) i found your blog through harpershappenings.com… i saw your linked up in her "steppin out" …had to click on your cause you're pregnant, as am i! (for only 6 more days hopefully.) i like your blog and am defintely going to start following. best of luck with your new one on the way. jessicahttp://feistyfeathers.blogspot.com

  27. ThatMamaGretchen says

    Baby tubs are a hassle … Jem only used hers for a short while. Now I'm not even sure if I'll keep it around for #2.

  28. Anonymous says

    Thanks on your marvelous posting! I actually enjoyed reading it, you could be a great author.I will make certain to bookmark your blog and will eventually come back in the future.I want to encourage one to continue your great writing, have a nice day!Here is my site ; http://elitecigarettestore.com/

  29. Anonymous says

    I'm curious to find out what blog platform you are using? I'm having some small security problems with my latest website and I would like to find something more secure. Do you have any suggestions?Also visit my webpage <a href="http://www.youtube.com” target=”_blank”>www.youtube.com

  30. Anonymous says

    Thanks for every other great article. Where else could anybody get that kind of information in such an ideal method of writing? I have a presentation subsequent week,and I'm on the search for such info.Feel free to visit my homepage : Asuntoja Antalyassa

  31. Anonymous says

    I think this is among the most significant information for me. And i'm glad reading your article. But want to remark on few general things, The site style is ideal, the articles is really nice : D. Good job, cheersAlso visit my website Ferienwohnung Antalya

  32. Anonymous says

    This article is actually a fastidious one it helps new net visitors, who are wishing for blogging.My web-site : immobilienalanya.net

  33. Anonymous says

    If you want to get a great deal from this piece of writing then you have to apply such strategies to your won weblog.My site ; bostaditurkiet.net

  34. Anonymous says

    Do you have a spam issue on this site; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to know your situation; we have created some nice methods and we are looking to trade techniques with other folks, please shoot me an email if interested.Look into my web page :: property in turkey

  35. Anonymous says

    Fine way of describing, and pleasant piece of writing to get information on the topic of my presentation subject, which i am going to deliver in institution of higher education.Also see my site :: Boligityrkia.Net

  36. Anonymous says

    Asking questions are actually fastidious thing if you are not understanding anything entirely, however this article gives pleasant understanding yet.my webpage: fastigheter i Antalya

  37. Anonymous says

    This is a really good tip especially to those new to the blogosphere.Simple but very precise info… Many thanks for sharing this one.A must read article!My blog diablo 3 wizard guide

  38. Anonymous says

    [p]My post will share [url =http://www.iecheapuggboots.com]cheap ugg boots ireland[/url] you three kinds of dresses . The most popular choice of materials would [url =http://www.uggbootssdeutschland.com]ugg boots deutschland[/url] be satin and silk . My Dear Sir, So What Are You Waiting For?As soon as possible to choose a pair of exclusive UGG Men's Boots for yourself! More Quantity and More [url =http://www.genuineuggs4u.co.uk]genuine ugg boots uk[/url] Discount . All the girls want [url =http://www.ghdoutletonline4u.co.uk]cheap ghd straighteners[/url] things fashion, and they want to look good . If you are so mindful about this aspect, then Nike [url =http://www.uggbootssverkauf.info]billige ugg boots[/url] provides you these Shox shoes in fascinating colors . The fragrance [url =http://www.womenuggboots4u.co.uk]women ugg boots[/url] itself by ugg is light amber like color . The biodiesel fuels sector ought to usually give good results to be sure that inadequately blended biofuels are identified just [url =http://www.womenuggboots4u.co.uk]cheap women ugg boots[/url] before they go on the end end user . "Uggs, so ugly, how could [url =http://www.ghdoutletonline4u.co.uk]ghd hair straighteners[/url] it become so popular?" "Ugg boots have no any personality, I hate it!" What is your first response? Agree or just rage? Actually, the argument is certain.[/p]

  39. Anonymous says

    Hello colleagues, its impressive post concerning teachingand completely defined, keep it up all the time.My homepagewhitening skin

  40. Anonymous says

    My developer is trying to persuade me to move to .net from PHP. I have always disliked the idea because of the expenses. But he's tryiong none the less. I've been using WordPress on several websites for about a year and am nervous about switching to another platform.I have heard fantastic things about blogengine.net.Is there a way I can transfer all my wordpress posts into it?Any help would be greatly appreciated!Look at my page :: laser tattoo removal

  41. Anonymous says

    [p]The womens UGG Classic Short Sparkles is a stylish and glittery take on one of our most famous [url =http://www.uggbootsinaustralia.co.uk]cheap ugg australia[/url] lacks the fancy bells and whistles of some of its competitor shoes, opting instead for a simple black and white block appearance . play a huge role wiattenuate our Existence . And now, the prevailing trend has begun to move throughout Asia concerning many countries like China, Japan [url =http://www.genuineuggbootsonlinesale.co.uk]cheap ugg boots online[/url] and so . Ugg boots are traditionally [url =http://www.cheapuggbootsinaustralia.co.uk]cheap ugg boots australia[/url] made from the australia finest twinface sheepskin . [url =http://www.uggbootsinaustralia.co.uk]ugg australia uk[/url] classiccardyuggs . For the newborn and old, [url =http://www.classicuggsbootssale.co.uk]classic ugg boots[/url] they are glad to enjoy the incomparable warmth on these shoes even in freezing days . Boot cuff can [url =http://www.australiauggsboot.co.uk]australia ugg boot sale[/url] be worn up or folded over in accordance with your style preference.[/p][/url] boots . It [url =http://www.cheapuggbootsinaustralia.co.uk]cheap ugg boots sale

  42. Anonymous says

    Having read this I believed it was really enlightening.I appreciate you finding the time and energy to put this short article together. I once again find myself spending a lot of time both reading and commenting.But so what, it was still worth it!Also visit my site ; http://propertyinturkeyforsale.net/

  43. Anonymous says

    [p]He has one grandson, Milo William Langdon (born December 14, 2004 in New York City), from daughter Liv's marriage to British musician Royston Langdon . http://www . regardless of whether a breathtaking and real hand arena or possibly a wonderful glassbead choker, one real focal point could possibly be even help you rework that small schokofarbene dress . Clemente Cappello, CEO of Sturgeon Money, whose Sturgeon Central Asia Fund has an exposure to Kazakhstan of about 10%, says he in addition likes Kazakh equities . Even Michael Jackson played an important role in promoting the popularity of Ray-Ban sunglasses in 1990's . While project approval is still being hotly contested, Tiffany is steering clear . Tiffany online shopping , I believe the main factors for girls of all ages going for silver jewelry is the fact that it matches every single dress and does not scratch that very easily so it is easy to wear it inside your each day use with no worrying that the silver shinning is going to go away or its going to acquire all rough . You can even go to somewhere like elance . Chinavasion Super Cool Mobile Phone Wrist Watch The cell phone watch idea has been for a long time, ever since a 1946 Dick Tracy strip at the very least, but it really didn't hit the market until half-way through this year.[/p][p]blabbermouth . He has one grandson, Milo William Langdon [url =http://www.tiffanycoengland.co.uk]tiffany rings[/url] (born December 14, 2004 in New York City), from daughter Liv's marriage to British musician Royston Langdon . According to budubelacan . He undertakes the [url =http://www.tiffanycoengland.co.uk]tiffany stores[/url] 6 yr voyage to Pandora in hopes of regaining legs via the Avatar program . He flies to the Na'vi camp and they're past impressed . After a few wears, the insoles [url =http://www.tiffanycoengland.co.uk]tiffany & co uk[/url] of these shoes present displace and conform to variant to the add . If your Tiffany Accent [url =http://www.tiffanycoengland.co.uk]tiffany rings uk[/url] Lamp is too small it might look just as out of place and not supply the right amount of lighting . Tiffany (Tiffany) since its inception in [url =http://www.tiffanycoengland.co.uk]tiffany jewelry[/url] 1837, has been to design full of stunning beauty of the original works as a purpose . com/news/articles/1617795/20090806/aerosmith.[/p]

  44. Anonymous says

    Hello There. I discovered your blog the usage of msn.That is a very well written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and come back to learn more of your useful information. Thanks for the post.I'll definitely comeback.Take a look at my web page: clear

  45. Anonymous says

    Hey there, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues.When I look at your blog site in Chrome, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, wonderful blog!Review my homepage tao of badass

  46. Anonymous says

    This is really interesting, You're a very skilled blogger. I've joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your fantastic post.Also, I have shared your site in my social networks!Visit my website josh pellicer pdf

  47. Anonymous says

    Pretty! This has been an extremely wonderful article.Many thanks for providing these details.phen375, buy phen375, phen375 reviews, phen375 review, phen375 scam,does phen375 work, fat burning foods,fat burning supplements,best fat loss supplement,best fat burning supplement,best fat burners,best fat burning supplements,best fat burner,fat burning supplements for men,belly fat burner,best supplements for weight loss,best fat burner for men,best weight loss supplement,best fat burners for women,fat loss supplements,best fat burner for women,how to burn fat,best fat burning foods,fat burning supplements for women,best belly fat burner,weight loss supplements,fat burners that work,lose fat fast,fast weight loss,burn fat,top fat burners,best weight loss supplements,how to burn fat fast,best fat burner supplement,burn fat fast,loose weight,fat burning diet,lose weight fast,belly fat,weight loss products,belly burner,fat burning foods for women,burning fat,rapid weight loss,fat burner supplements,supplements for weight loss,quick weight loss,losing weight fast,natural fat burners,how to lose weight fast,best way to lose weight,fat loss,weight loss tips,fat burners for men,fat burners for women,fat burning exercises,fat burning furnace,fat burning workouts,green tea fat burner,burn body fat,burn the fat,how to lose weight,fat burner reviews,losing weight,how to lose fat fast,thermogenic fat burners,fat burning cream,fat burning food,lose weight,fat burning,fat loss diet,belly fat burning foods,green tea weight loss,how to lose belly fat,foods that burn fat,zantrex 3 fat burner,how to lose stomach fat,foods that burn fat fast,diet supplements,fat blockers,zantrex 3,fat burning foods for men,lose fat,lose stomach fat,how to lose fat,natural fat burner,green tea fat burner reviews,thermogenics,fat burner,best diet,fat blocker,proactol,weight loss product,fat burning diets,losing belly fat,zantrex 3 fat burner reviews,lipo 6,lose belly fat,tava tea,diet plans,do fat burners work,ways to lose weight,capsiplex,capsiplex reviews,meratol,the best fat burner,loose weight fast,foods that help burn fat,weight loss fast,buy proactol,most effective diet,burn fat build muscle,weight loss supplement,loss weight fast,fat burners,weight loss reviews,what is the best fat burner,fat burning belt,fastest way to lose weight,weight loss programs,belly fat cure,how to burn belly fat,best way to burn fat,burn belly fat,foods that burn belly fat,lose weight in 2 weeks,weight loss,fast fat loss,weight loss diets,fastest way to burn fat,easy weight loss,best weight loss,burn belly fat fast,good diets,hoodia diet pills,top fat burning foods,lose weight quickly,where to buy african mango,fat burning recipes,burn the fat review,herbal weight loss,effective diets,suppress appetite,weight watch,belly burner belt,ways to burn fat,fat burn

  48. Anonymous says

    Simply want to say your article is as astounding.The clarity on your publish is just nice and that i can think you're an expert in this subject. Well together with your permission let me to grab your RSS feed to keep updated with imminent post. Thank you one million and please carry on the gratifying work.lose weight does phen375 work

  49. Anonymous says

    I am pretty sure Martin will say that it depends and it does since everyone can be a bit different.A lot of stuff go into determining calorie and nutrient intakes.Age, exercise levels, carb sensitivity….list will get lengthy.My webpage; clean eating grocery list meal plan

  50. Anonymous says

    I've been using this solution to get a 7 days nowadays and I've lost 6lbs.. I am amazed . I only wanna fall fifteen however I'm able to see inches soften absent.I bought the Genesis Manufacturer ..bout thirty bucks..I take two cap 2 times aday …Each serving is 800 a total of 1600 mil every day .. As significantly as the caffiene I've no jitters .. But it's before roasted and so the caffeine is organic and reduced .. A med cup of espresso at Tim Hortons has three times as much ..Now about energy .. Yes it has elevated . I've notices many journey towards the restroom .. Regular urinatinan specifically at night …can be annoying if your sleepy lolWill verify back again next solar ….Good luck which product truly works .Feel free to visit my blog post: dr oz weight loss raspberry ketones :: ::

  51. Anonymous says

    Thank you for posting this! It really is nice to have it all in a single place. Just purchased the heart operate shirt really like it!Also visit my site good workout plans for abs