Young children often mimic the actions of the people they spend time with. Your child might have noticed that older siblings, and parents use the toilet instead of wearing diapers. They might want to start doing the same. If your child has starting to assert some independence, while also showing the ability to stay dry in his or her diaper or pull up for extended periods of time, then it might be a great time to begin potty training.
Consider Timing
Are you expecting a new baby soon? Are you about to move, or go on a vacation? If you are about to experience a life change, it might be best to wait a while to start your potty training experience.
Involve Your Child
Allow them to help choose the child sized potty, or seat reducer potty chair. Also have them choose some new undies to wear when they are having consistent toilet training success. Take them shopping with you, and allow them to help choose toilet paper and wipes. Be sure to only use flush-able wipes though, or you might soon be calling a plumber for toilet repair! Invite your child to complete the exciting action of flushing the toilet.
Keep it Lighthearted
While learning to use the potty is important, it need not be a process that involves anxiety on the part of the parent or the child. Stay upbeat and relaxed, and your child will do the same. Sing a silly potty song, or read some age appropriate library books about learning to use the potty.
Offer Reassurance
Mishaps and relapses happen, but even if you are getting tired of the potty training process, it is important to let your child know that potty success is still in his or her future. Give your child motivation to keep trying and working toward independent toilet habits.
Remember that there is not a magical universal age to begin potty training. Pay attention to signs from your child, and decide if the timing is right. Also consider your current season of life. If you begin potty training and realize that your child is just not ready yet, feel free to hold off until a later date. Pressuring a child who is not physically or cognitively ready yet will just make for a prolonged and frustrating experience for everyone involved. Follow your child’s cues, stay relaxed, offer positive reinforcement, and be ready for a potty training success story!
