Crocodiles in the bath problem...

[logic]

My 2 yr 8 mth old son has an extremely active imagination. He spends most of his time pretending something or other. Unfortunately, he has now decided that there are crocodiles in the bath and is terrified of going in there! Once he is in there, he screams and wants to get out. I've tried telling him that there are no reptiles of any description in the bath, I've tried "shooing" them away, I've tried letting him bath with me but nothing seems to persuade him. He is convinced. Does anyone have any suggestions for dealing with this because I think it is going to be a real problem soon?

Try talking to the crocodiles in a tone of benign exasperation: "Oh no, silly crocodiles, we've told them so many times they're not allowed in the bath. Only friendly crocodiles are allowed in our house. Tell them if they don't go home right away their mummies will be very cross with them".

Sounds a bit Joyce Grenfell, but worked for us.

Can you get him to like crocodiles? Maybe with some funny books or toys?
This is an alligator but my ds really liked this book: Wanted!

or how about Lou the Crocodile

Get a plastic crocodile and put it in the bath. Fill the bath and when your DS is there remove the crocodile sayong "naughty crocodile! Back into your cage!" and put the croc somewhere secure.

Turn it into a game with the crocodile.

buy plastic crocodiles????

Snap!

Which is kind of appropriate for a crocodile thread

Here's a 64 Zoo Lane one

lol frogs, I tried that and he just looked at me as if I was mad. Thanks for the suggestions, I will try the 'crocodiles are nice' route. Those books look really good too.

How about giving some boats or other toys to play with in the bath to take his mind off the crocodiles?

There must be som good crocodile related songs surely???

So far can only think of two:

Row Row row the boat... lots of laughing, squealing and splashing!

and

Never smile at a crocodile (not sure if that would help though)

I suspect that "row row row your boat" had something to do with his fear because it's one of his favourite songs...

If all else fails could you try giving him a shower instead - some kids quite like taking showers?

Message withdrawn

He is even more frightened of showers but a good suggestion! I think it might be a reaction to the new baby coming along too. He is obviously aware that something is going on.