Newborns and young infants often cry during a diaper change. This may be due to the change
in temperature produced by being undressed or the feeling of disorganization that occurs when arms and
legs are no longer held snugly together by clothes or a blanket. For many parents their crying infant
lends a sense of urgency to the situation. Not having everything you need at hand can be frustrating
and distressing. This tension is easily transmitted to the infant, who cries all the more. In addition,
even very young infants can move and so shouldn't be left unattended on the changing table while you're
searching for a missing item. If this happens it's better to carry your crying infant with you than to
leave her behind. But... before you know it, diapering your infant will be completely routine. You'll know
the easiest ways to slip head, feet, and hands in and out of clothes.
Here are a few helpful hints to speed you on your way:
Change your baby in the same place so items don't get scattered.
Gather everything you need before you begin.
Buy two of anything that will need to go in a diaper bag.
If your home is on two levels try making room for a changing area on both floors.
Keep a checklist near the changing table to remind yourself to replenish supplies.
If you're using cloth diapers try to have some placed within the wrappers.
Keep some disposable diapers on hand in case the laundry doesn't get done.
You will probably feel more comfortable using some baby products than others. If you have
any questions about using skin care or other products ask your doctor or nurse practitioner, particularly
if your baby's skin seems sensitive.
Keep a few toys on the changing table like a rattle, squeeze toy, or board book to keep your
infant occupied.
Adding different toys may keep your baby's attention. You may also want to use different toys as your baby
grows and develops new skills.
Hang an attractive mobile above the changing table or mount a non-breakable mirror on the wall next to baby.
Sing and talk to your infant in a soothing tone so your infant can learn to be comforted by your voice.
When your infant is calm this can be a fun one-to-one time for finger and toe games.
See the Changing Table Checklist that follows
Changing-Table Checklist
Item
Best-Liked Brand
Shopping List
Disposable diapers
Cloth diapers
Diaper wrappers
Diaper pins
Diaper rash ointment
Baby lotion
Salt water nose drops
Diaper wipes
Petroleum jelly
Sterile cotton balls
Baby nail scissors or clippers
Brush or comb
Socks or booties
Receiving blankets
Onesies
Infant thermometer
Nasal syringe
Adapted from Healthy Steps. Edited and Compiled by the Center for Promotion of Child Development through Primary Care 2011
