Ask Our Expert - A 10 Month Old Who Flips Off The Changing Table

September 07, 2008

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Ask Dr. Jana A 10 Month Old Who Flips Off The Changing Table

QUESTION


Do you have any recommendations on keeping my 10 month old son still while he is on the changing table? Lately he has been flipping while I am trying to change him. — Mary in Roanoke, Virginia

ANSWER	June 3, 2000


I am commonly asked this question, since 10 month olds typically spend their time perfecting their flipping, rolling and sitting skills, as well as satisfying their constant need to explore. You can handle diaper changing several ways. I often recommend that this is a very good age to stop using a changing table and change your baby on the floor or on a bed where he is at less risk of falling. This doesn't usually solve the problem of flipping and exploring, so try to give your son something to focus on or play with while you change him. Distraction works very well at this age, at least long enough for you to change a diaper. I will add that you should feel comfortable in laying some "ground-rules" and letting your son know kindly but firmly what is expected of him; from now on, probably until he goes to college or later, it is his job to test you to see if you mean what you say and it is your job to let him know that while you are willing to have fun, you have a job to get done and you intend to do it. — by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

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