Getting 2 Year Old to Bend Legs During Diaper Changes?

I usually changed them standing up.

For a pee diaper you can pretty much take one off and put the other one on. They don't need much wiping, but I always tried to do some.

For a poopy diaper I had them turn away from me and said, "Touch your toes!" They thought it was cool and would reach down and touch their toes. Then I would wipe. Sometimes I needed them to do it again, but I usually got most of it with them just doing it once. Then I'd turn them around and say, "Spread your legs apart," so I could put the new diaper on.

If you really think he's playing games with you then consider making it into a game. Think of a fun reason for him to do what you need him to do. Diaper changing time can be fun time if you are careful.

And I disagree that you need to start potty training. Neither of my boys were potty trained before 3 1/2. I thought I had my youngest potty trained earlier, but then he regressed. You can try it. But don't be too upset if it doesn't happen.

Tickle him! And then work fast!

Tap on his knees and tell him to bend them in a no nonsense voice. He's 2, he'll understand.

at 2 years old I would think you should start to potty train him. If he is playing games, then the diaper needs to go.

I don't think he's ready for intense potty training but at that age when they pooped they got a shower. It was way easier and they had more fun. No changing table or pads at that age.

I do think that he's old enough to start learning some bathroom stuff but waiting until May is a good idea. Kids seem to train better in the spring and summer.

Distraction worked well for all my kids: they all liked to point at body parts (Where are your eyes? Where is your hair? etc.) or I would give them something to hold. When your child is distracted and relaxes, his legs will bend more easily.

It's a stage and it will pass. Be patient :-)
T. Y
(SAHM of 5 - 13, 12, 6, 4 & 2)

I agree with Katie D. Make bending his knees a part of the tickling. Perhaps tickle his knees. Doesn't he bend his knees when you tickle his feet? In a playful way ask him to keep them bent.