What Kids Think About Wiping

Wonder why your child hasn’t mastered wiping yet? Looking at the challenge through your child’s eyes may help.

Recognize that your child might feel pressured to be a “big kid”.

Going to the bathroom is a "big kid" activity. And this might not be your child's only new big kid activity. Children this age often have a new sibling, start preschool, and give up bottles -- all at the same time. Your child might be thinking, "You are asking too much of me all at once. That's why I ask you to 'wipe me.' "

Remember that some kids might not notice the problem.

Some kids don’t care that much about being clean and don’t realize it when they are dirty. Your child might be thinking, “Why are you so worried about this? What’s the big deal? I’ll take a bath later.” Other kids might simply not realize the importance until they get a rash, but probably can’t make the connection without your help.

Realize that your child might just be “too busy” to wipe.

Going to the bathroom and wiping thoroughly takes kids away from the important stuff in life – playing!

Recognize that your child might not know how to do this on his own.

Your child might be thinking, "I want to do this myself, but I don't know how!" Some kids might not admit that they still need a little bit of help. Older children in particular may feel like they shouldn't need you, but they still don't know how to wipe on their own.