Little Words

Say & Play Daily routine · bath

Splish Splash Bath Time

Bath routine words, action words, and simple sequencing

4 meaningful actionsroutine4 communication levelsSpeech optional

How this routine works

Buddy is muddy after play. Help with a familiar bath routine. The child changes the scene through four connected actions. These are the authored prompts and models, so an adult can preview the language before play.

  1. Play action 1First, what fills the tub?
    Buddy models: Water in. The water is warm.
    Warm water fills the tub.
  2. Play action 2Buddy is still muddy.
    Buddy models: Soap on. Wash, wash.
    Soap makes soft white suds.
  3. Play action 3The tub needs one playful thing.
    Buddy models: Bubbles! Pop the bubbles.
    Bubbles float across the tub.
  4. Play action 4Bath time is finished.
    Buddy models: Towel, please. Dry off.
    Buddy wraps up in a warm towel.

Why this interaction fits the communication goal

Primary target: Bath routine words, action words, and simple sequencing

Ways to participate: Tap the next bath item, point, gesture, use AAC, or speak.

  • The scene carries the meaning. The child acts directly on the objects instead of answering flashcards over a background.
  • Models can stay short or expand. Examples include:
    • soap
    • wash
    • wash hands
    • first soap, then water
  • Speech is never a gate. Tapping, dragging, gesture, AAC, approximations, and spoken language can all be meaningful participation.
  • The payoff belongs to the action. Each choice changes the scene, and the routine ends with the result of what the child has been doing.

This resource supports education and guided practice. It is not an assessment, diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for individualized care from a qualified speech-language pathologist. Little Words Editorial authors and checks the interaction, language, and access behavior. Read our editorial standards.

Does a child have to speak?

No. Speech can be invited and modeled, but it is never required or scored.

How should an adult choose a model?

Use a model that fits the child’s current communication goal. When a child is receiving speech therapy, follow the target words, cues, and practice guidance from the child’s SLP.