PL T2.01Diaper Change as a Shared Routine
The adult changes the infant's diaper in the bathroom area, telling them each step before doing it, moving slowly, and waiting for the infant to lift their legs or hold the clean diaper.
Safety
- Never leave an infant on a raised changing surface, even for a moment; keep one hand on them.
- Follow the posted diaper-changing and hand-washing procedure your licensing requires, including gloves and surface cleaning.
- Store wipes, creams, and cleaning products out of the infant's reach.
- Use only creams the family has authorized in writing.
Presentation
- 1
Set out the diaper, wipes, and cream on the changing surface before picking the infant up.
- 2
Kneel beside the infant, say their name, and tell them: 'Your diaper is wet. I am going to pick you up to change it.' Wait until they look at you, then lift them slowly.
- 3
Carry them to the bathroom area and lay them on their back. Keep one hand on the infant from now until you lift them down.
- 4
Tell the infant each step before you do it: 'I am going to open your pants.' Wait a moment, then do it.
- 5
Say: 'Lift your legs, please.' Touch the backs of their thighs lightly and wait. Any lift of the legs or hips is the infant's part and the point of interest.
- 6
Remove the diaper, wipe front to back, and name the body parts with their real names. Put the used diaper in the lidded can.
- 7
Show the infant the clean diaper and let them hold it. Take it back, slide it under them, and fasten it, saying what you do.
- 8
Wash the infant's hands, then lift them down and return them to the mat. Clean the surface and wash your hands as the posted procedure requires.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- The infant lifts their hips when asked
- The infant hands the adult the clean diaper
- The infant pushes their arms into sleeves when clothes are changed
- Once standing, move to the Standing Diaper Change
Control of error
None in the material; the adult watches whether the infant is relaxed and looking, and slows down when they tense or turn away.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Looks at the adult when told a step is coming
- Lifts legs or hips when asked
- Reaches for or holds the clean diaper
- Stays calm through the change
Guide note
Montessori sources place the changing area in or next to the bathroom from the start, so the infant links the room with toileting. Toys handed to an infant to keep them still take their attention away from the routine; talking with them and inviting their part is used instead.