Key Points:
1. Bonding Through Dressing: Dressing and undressing your baby is a bonding opportunity. Prepare clean, comfortable clothes and follow safe steps.
2. Dressing and Undressing Techniques: Use the accordion method for dressing: pass clothing over head and arms. For undressing, remove layers to keep baby warm and take off clothes carefully. Practice makes perfect!
Dressing and undressing your baby is a great moment to bond, interact, and maybe even play a game of Peek-a-boo. It might seem a difficult task at first, but you’ll see that with time and practice you’ll be an expert clothes-changer.
First, make sure that your little one’s clothing is clean, comfortable, and suitable for her age. Prepare the change of clothes and place your little one on a flat, safe surface, like the changing table, bed, or couch. Don’t forget to keep your eyes on her at all times.
How do I dress my baby?
- Lay your baby on her back on a flat surface.
- Take the garment you want to put on and scrunch it up from bottom to top, like an accordion. Lift your baby a bit and hold her head gently. Stretch the cloth from the neckline and gently pass it over your little one’s head, avoiding her face.
- Repeat the same accordion technique now for the sleeves. Start with one side, passing her hand through the opening and carefully bringing the sleeve down your child’s arm. Repeat this with the other arm.
- Adjust the clothes on her body and fasten the buttons or clasps.
- Repeat the same steps for every layer of clothing. If you put on pants, use the same accordion technique for each leg.
- Finally, don’t forget her little socks.
How do I undress my baby?
- Lay her on her back.
- Take off her clothes one layer at a time, so she doesn’t get cold.
- If your little one wears pants, begin from there. Unbutton and gently slide them down.
- Hold your little one’s head while you take off her shirt or onesie, one arm at a time.
- Then, bring the garment towards her neck, gently stretch the piece of clothing and pass your little one’s head through the opening, avoiding touching her face.
- If you need to remove a romper, unzip or unbutton it and carefully lift your little one to gently slide the romper off, one arm and one leg at a time.
Remember that it takes several attempts to master this skill. Eventually, you’ll learn the best way to dress and undress your baby; one way that’s easy for you and comfortable for your little one.