Hi mama,
Some of the most unexpectedly tricky moments in early motherhood are the ones you thought would be sweet and simple. Like bath time.
We imagined soft splashes, giggles, warm water, that sweet baby smell… but reality was far from it.
When we got home from the hospital, bathtime quickly became a battle. Ollie wasn’t enjoying it — he’d squirm, cry, and shiver. We were struggling too — hunched over the tub, trying to find the right position, feeling like we were doing something wrong. There was no joy in it for any of us. Just stress, mess, and an aching back.
Until one day, we tried something different.
My husband started taking showers with Ollie.
No baby tub. No cold air. No awkward setup. Just skin-to-skin, warm water, and bonding time. It was simple — and it worked. Ollie was calmer, more relaxed, and for the first time… he enjoyed being in the water. He felt safe. Close. Held.
And I? I had a few precious minutes to myself. To breathe. To drink water. To scroll. To not be touched. And knowing my two favourite people were having a peaceful moment together made it even sweeter.
Today, when we say “shower time with Daddy,” Ollie lights up. He knows it’s his special time. He smiles, he kicks his legs, and he’s full of excitement. What once was a struggle has become one of his favourite rituals.
So to any mum out there who’s dreading the daily bath, just know: it doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. And sometimes, the best thing is simply to change the routine.
Try a shower. Let Dad take the lead. Give yourself a breather. It just might change everything.
With love,
Renata (Ollie’s mum) 💛