Diapers and Self-esteem

You may think that I'm reaching here, but I feel that changing your babies diapers with the right attitude can start your children on their way in life with better self-esteem. As a father of four daughters, working hard to pay the bills, my family time has always been valued dearly. When I am home and a child needs changing I have always been there with a smile. My wife has been changing diapers all day and when I am home it's my pleasure. This truly is a wonderful time to have some one on one time with your child. Here is my baby in front of me. The last thing in the world I would ever want is for her to think that this was a real pain for me. This is our time to laugh, smile and have some fun. We hug and talk and I tell her how wonderful and smart she is. This is a great time to tell your child they are cute, smart, wonderful and all the other self-esteem building things you can tell them.

I take a long time when changing a diaper. I take care of the immediate business, then I use any oils or powders needed to make my child comfortable. I talk the whole time and enjoy the priceless looks I get in return.

I have never finished a diaper change without counting all of the fingers and all of the toes. Yes, I teach my children to count while they are still in diapers, but it works. I start by saying "let me check and make sure you still have all of your fingers and toes". I then hold and count each finger and toe. I make sure there are five on each limb. As the kids get older I will "accidentally" forget to count and before I can pick the child up I have either an open hand or a foot in my face saying "hey dad, you forgot something".

That has always been my diaper change. I have heard of many other great ones, but do something that starts a happy, good feeling for your child and a routine they look forward to. They can't help it when they have to go, so don't make them feel bad about it, make it a positive parenting moment, each and every time.