Welcome to the Home Insemination Kit advice column, where our team is here to tackle your most pressing questions about parenting, relationships, and all the confusing aspects of life.
This week, we’re diving into the topic of when it’s appropriate for parents to stop assisting their older kids with wiping. Have a question of your own? Reach out to us!
So, I recently found myself in a chat with some mom friends who were venting about their kids’ wiping skills, or lack thereof, and how they were facing laundry challenges due to some serious messes. I kept quiet because I felt a bit out of place, but I need to confess—I still wipe my child’s butt, and she’s almost five! It seems like a non-issue to me, especially since she hasn’t been in preschool due to the pandemic. However, my friends’ children have been handling it on their own since they were potty-trained, which honestly surprises me. Am I the odd one out for being the mom who wipes her big kid’s bottom?
First off, I just have to say, this is one of the most charming “problems” I’ve encountered! Now, about your concern—no, you’re not weird. As you mentioned, you’ve continued to help her because there hasn’t been a need to stop. Every child develops at their own pace, and I can assure you that not many kids are capable of cleaning themselves thoroughly at just two years old. The fact that your friends are dealing with laundry disasters suggests their kids might not have mastered the technique, either.
If you feel comfortable, it’s a great time to start teaching your daughter how to do it herself. She may be hesitant about the whole process, but with a little guidance, she’ll likely pick it up. Count out the toilet paper squares—5 or 6 should do—and show her how to wipe effectively. As she gets ready to start school, having this skill will be essential for her.
Don’t let the label of “Butt-Wiping Mom” bother you. Embrace it! You’ll avoid dealing with messy laundry, and your daughter is learning good hygiene habits that will serve her well in the future. For more on parenting and related topics, check out this post here or visit Make a Mom for valuable resources.
Search queries:
- How to teach kids to wipe themselves
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In summary, you’re not alone in your parenting journey. Many parents find themselves in similar situations, and there’s no right or wrong age to help with hygiene. Continue supporting your child until she’s ready to take over, and remember that each child is different.
Keyphrase: Wiping older kids
Tags: “home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”