Potty Training Tips - are they ready?

When to start Potty Training

Though there is no set age and starting below the ‘terrible’ twos is unlikely. However there are many ‘tell-tale’ signs when you should start potty training.

Wants a clean nappy wants to stay dry

This will be shown by a general discomfort by the child when they have soiled themselves and want to be changed as soon as possible.

Wants Privacy when they ‘go’

The most common way this is shown is the child moves to a seculded area of the house or stops doing what ever they are doing and moves.

Recognises the need to go and tells you

The child would either inform you they have to go; either via verbal or non-verbal communication.

Ability to hold

This is a vital skill for potty training your child, if they have not mastered the ability to ‘hold’ themselves for a period of atleast 20 seconds at the start of training, it is advised you wait before starting potty training.

Pulling Clothes Up or Down

This point is linked to the above about recognising the need to go; this action shows that they have understood the next logical step and because of their discomfort of a soiled diaper they want to get it done as soon as possible.

Copying Older Siblings

This is an indication of the child wanting to learn and imitation is  a key step in this process.

Other Points to look out for!

- Your child stays dry for at least two hours during the day and is dry after naps, which indicates that she’s able to remain dry for an extended period of time.

- Shows an interest in wearing underwear.

- Has predictable bowel movements on a regular basis.

- Expresses an interest in using the toilet or potty seat.

- Your child asks to wear grown-up underwear.

Other Potty Training Tips to remember!

- Children below two years of age are unlikely to be ready for potty training.

- Boys are more likely to fit the criteria after their 3rd birthdays.

-  3 to 4 year old children can still have ‘accidents’ even after potty training.

- Leaving Potty Training to a later date will mean the child is more physically mature and will result in a easier and quicker period.

- Dress the child in loose fitting clothes so it is easier for them.

- Encourage Hygiene, washing hands after use etc.

- Don’t get cross stay calm and sympathetic during the whole potty training process.

- Use a rewardchart and treats to encourgae them.

- Listening to your childs developmental cues is key. If you push too early, it may make the child resistant to potty training in the future.

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