Evenings stretching a little too long? Run out of activities to try to keep your kids occupied until bedtime? Tired of cleaning under the high chair? Feed your kids in the bath!
Before you get too grossed out imagining your baby eating strawberry yogurt in the tub or your toddler holding a taco in one hand and a bath toy in the other, let us talk you through just five of the reasons why feeding your kids in the bath is one of our favorite Mom Hacks of all time.
1) It's novel
If everyone is feeling cooped up, teasing each other, or whining, switching gears to do something totally new and fun is a great way to increase morale.
2) No mess
Just spoon feed them simple cereals or soft foods like sweet potato, oatmeal, or yogurt, or let them eat provisions-style with a plate of chopped fruits and veggies, cheese, and meat. Or go in and feed them the messiest entrees you can imagine. Spaghetti and meatballs is a big hit in our home. Any drips, spills, crumbs, splashes clean themselves up thanks to the bathwater. You will NOT be cleaning the floor under the high chair tonight. Yay!
3) Two birds with one stone
Dinner and bath at the same time? Done. Now you can spend more time chatting and playing during bath time instead of rushing towards the next bedtime routine steps. Or, spend less time during bath time and more time with your preferred part of the bedtime routine: reading and cuddling. It's up to you!
4) Say yes to messy treats
Surprise those little people you love more than anything in the world with a very special treat. Choose the messiest treat you can imagine and let 'em at it. It's so satisfying to watch them cover themselves in chocolate ice cream or red Popsicle and know that the bath will take care of it. You're just there to watch and enjoy.
5) Make it special
Caring for children is an endless string of monotonous tasks. It's good to break out of our routine and be spontaneous with our kids. Invite your bathing beauties to choose a couple toys that are water-friendly but aren't typically bath toys and bring 'em into the tub. Or, let them soak in the "special" guest bathroom bathtub. Drop some bubble bath, bath crayons, or color tablets into the water. Play kid's music and sing together. Warm their towels in the dryer so when they get out, they're nice and toasty. Climb in with them and play!
So, what do you guys think? Would you feed your kids in the bath? Do you do this already? Does it work for you as well as it does for us? We're excited to hear your thoughts. Share with us on Instastories @tubbytodd!
