If your toddler seems to go to the bathroom almost every time they undress or almost undress, it’s probably time to start potty-training.
As a general rule, opt for natural materials, such as cotton, rather than synthetics, as these tend to be less scratchy to the skin and more breathable overall. Also be sure that you’re not over-layering your toddler’s clothes. After all, if a child is hot and can’t express this discomfort, they’ll simply attempt to shed the offending articles.
Are any parts too tight or too loose? How soft is the fabric? Could it be itchy or scratchy? Are the clothes staying in place properly, or do they get twisted or bunched up?
Note the time and setting of your child getting undressed. Change your routine to provide your child with more stimulation and activites during this time, if needed. Next time it happens, tone down your response so that you don’t reward their negative behaviors. [5] X Expert Source Denise SternParenting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 February 2021. Remain as calm as possible and make it clear that you wardrobe malfunctions won’t garner any special attention in the future.
In the meantime, try to keep your child’s fidgeting hands and fingers occupied by giving them a doll or stuffed animal to practice their skills. A dressing board can give your toddler an alternative to actually undressing to practice their skills. These boards give your child the chance to practice using zippers and buttons without taking off their clothes.
For example, if you laugh or chase the child, they can learn that their misbehavior causes fun scenes and attracts lots of attention. If you reproach the child and act embarrassed, they can get the wrong message and think that bodies are shameful. [9] X Research source
Distractions are a great strategy to use when you’re dealing with misbehavior. [11] X Expert Source Denise SternParenting Specialist Expert Interview. 19 February 2021. If distraction doesn’t work, try giving your child a bottle, a healthy snack, or a pacifier.
If your child is refusing to get dressed after disrobing, have the time-out last as long as their refusal does. Make it clear that they can mitigate their punishment by correcting the behavior.
Additionally, you can switch to cloth diapers with more secure clips, apply duct tape to the diaper, or select clothes with zippers or tiny, tedious buttons. [13] X Research source
Some good times for this relaxation include 30 minutes after bath time or right before naptime. Even though your toddler is too young to understand social customs or guidelines of appropriateness, you can make it clear that nakedness is only okay at home through other means. Don’t ever allow naked time in the car, outside, or at another person’s house, and make getting dressed something clearly associated with leaving the house or seeing people from outside of the family.
If your toddler needs some new clothes, have them come along with you when shopping. If they see, point to, or otherwise express interest in an item within your budget, purchase it!
If your toddler seems uninterested by this kind of dress-up, gather up a costume chest so that they can play dress-up with friends or siblings.
