Warm Water Hand Dip for Babies

A shallow bowl or small basin

Warm water (test on your inner wrist — it should feel comfortable, not hot)

A soft towel for drying

A waterproof mat or extra towel underneath

Fill a shallow bowl with a couple inches of warm water and test the temperature on your wrist.

Lay a towel under the bowl to catch any splashes, and sit your baby securely in your lap.

Gently guide one of your baby's hands into the water and let them feel the warmth.

Swirl the water slowly with your finger so your baby can watch the little ripples form.

Let your baby splash or pat the water at their own pace — no rushing.

After a minute or two, lift their hand out and pat it dry, saying, "Now your hand is dry!"

Repeat with the other hand if baby is still engaged and happy.

Never leave your baby unattended near water, even a shallow bowl.

Adding a single floating toy (a rubber duck works great) gives your baby something to track visually.

This activity is perfect before or after a bath to extend water time without a full routine.

Try cool water on a different day so your baby starts to notice temperature differences.

If your baby pulls their hand away quickly, that's a normal response — they're processing a new sensation.