Why won’t my child hold still during diaper changes?

A father walked out of his son’s bedroom shaking his head. “I don’t believe it. He only weighs twenty pounds and I still can’t get him to hold still for a diaper change.” Getting a baby diapered and dressed requires a surprising amount of skill and patience, even though the job is a short one. Toddlers, who are usually in constant motion, squirm and resist diaper changes. They’re excited about their world, their interests change constantly, and they want to move and explore. Because they have a hard time putting off any of their urges, even for a moment, they don’t like to lie still.

Distraction can sometimes make diapering a little easier. Put some toys or interesting playthings and objects nearby, and keep handing them to your child. This might occupy him during a quick change. You also can try singing to him or making interesting noises, but you may still have to restrain him a bit until you get him changed. You’ll naturally feel frustrated as he resists and struggles, but just remember that your toddler has a strong drive to assert himself and explore and that’s why he won’t hold still.