Baby is kicking to avoid diaper changes, what should I do?

In 15-month-old toddlers, running away and kicking during diaper changes is quite common — this is not 'stubbornness' but an instinct to protect gained freedom of movement. Being confined to something feels restrictive and game-interrupting to a small person.

A few strategies that might work:

• Distract, don't force: Turn diaper changing into playtime. Give them something they find interesting (book, keys, textured toy) or play a tape/mirror above their head. When attention is inevitable, you can do a quick "peekaboo."
• Try standing instead of on their back: Some 15-month-olds find standing diaper changes less restrictive — if pull-ups work, try that. Diapers with side openings you can pull through without removing pants also help.
• Shorten the routine: Speed up conversation and the process; if they know what to expect, resistance increases. Give a clear order like "now diaper cleaning, then toy."
• Use praise: If they cooperate, an understatement "great job helping" — but the real powerful tool is not forcing.

If resistance lasting more than two weeks makes daily care impossible, getting sensory clues from your pediatrician or an occupational therapist might help.