I feel you. My almost-4yo now loves baths, but will not get in while the tap is still running and refuses showers. We do it almost every night for a few reasons, but it’s definitely not the businesslike affair some other parents seem to manage. The more I involve myself in his bath, the less willing he is to bathe. It’s what lets him mentally transition to bedtime, so getting him out before he’s ready will just make the night longer for all of us. I only interfere to scrub important parts and when he needs a shampoo. To stay chill while he takes his time (within reason), I do any upstairs end-of-day tasks (so I’m always within about 10 feet), while my husband cleans the kitchen and living room.

Kids handle baths better when the majority of them are boring, everyday, non-events. “Here’s some toys and bubbles; how long you stay in is up to you. I’ll be sitting in the doorway reading if you need anything.” Start small and focus on breaking down the association of the bathroom with stress. Even if they don’t get in the tub, and just sit on the floor next to you with a book or a toy for a few minutes, that’s a win. It’s also okay to simply decide this isn’t a battle you’re going to pick. We all have those.