Just as all kids are unique, there is no right or wrong time to begin potty training your toddler. However, the best time to begin is when she’s ready. According to the Mayo Clinic, most toddlers are ready to begin the training process by age 2, although some are closer to 3 years old before they’re ready to consider using the toilet. What you have to remember is that potty training is dictated by your child’s physical, mental and emotional readiness and not your own timeline.
On Your Mark
Although every child will master the potty on her own accord, there are signs you can look for to determine whether your toddler might be ready to start practicing. She might become interested in watching other people use the toilet. Likewise, she will probably feel uncomfortable in a messy diaper and express an interest in wearing underpants. She might even shed her clothes to examine her own body parts in the mirror and question how they work. Most important, she will be able to stay dry during the day for a few hours at a time.
Once you’ve determined your toddler is ready to begin using the potty, start to incorporate “potty talk” into your everyday conversations and routine. Invite her to watch you use the toilet and explain how the process works. When visiting the library, look for child-centered books about using the potty that incorporate simple text and illustrations. Decide which words you will use to describe both your child’s anatomical body parts, as well as the function of using the toilet, and use those words consistently.
Toddlers, especially younger ones, are only just learning how to master bladder control. As a result, they can be prone to frequent daytime accidents. Many parents find setting a timer to sound every 30 minutes to be a useful reminder to invite their children to sit on the toilet. It’s important not to force your child to sit until she actually produces, however, as this can cause unnecessary anxiety and pressure. And if she does have an accident, try not to make a big deal about it. One thing to keep in mind is that even if your child is fully potty-trained during the day, it might be years before she is able to keep dry through the night.
Once your toddler begins to show interest in and to sit on the toilet, it’s time to start phasing out reminders of her babyhood. Begin to accentuate all the big-kid things she’s now capable of doing, such as helping with small chores around the house or riding a tricycle. Get rid of those “baby” items, such as the changing table and crib. Take her to the store and let her choose a package of cotton underpants.
Make It Easy
Your toddler will feel more confident in her ability to master her potty training skills with a little help from you. Instead of buying clothes that snap in the crotch or have difficult-to-manipulate zippers, hooks or buttons, look for clothes with elastic waistbands that are easy for her to pull down and up. If she’ll be using a full-sized toilet, a miniature seat that fits on top will help her sit securely. Likewise, a step stool will make reaching the toilet a lot easier for her and can serve as a booster when it’s time to wash her hands.