As with anything you have to regularly with your child, it’ll make your life easier if bathtime is something he or she looks forward to. There are all sorts of ways that you can make bathtime fun time.

Toys: Keep a bucket of toys specifically for bathtime play. These can be anything from old sandbox toys (cleaned, of course), to ordinary household items such as cups or measuring spoons, to toys actually manufactured for the bath. Just be careful that your child doesn’t take something into the bath that won’t survive the water!

Soap and shampoo: Once a kid gets used to playing in the tub, actually having to wash can create problems. Avoid these by having your kid help pick out special scented kid soaps and shampoos.

Keeping company: If your child is alone in the bath, he or she might appreciate any time you can spare to roll up your sleeves and play along. Just make sure you set some ground rules if you’re going to play, such as whether or not you’re okay with being splashed!