is my child ready to start potty training?

Few words spark fear in a parent’s heart like these two: potty training. Most family’s war stories include a tale or two of training for the toilet. They range from the mildly amusing to the truly terrifying but one thing is certain – no child ever went to college in their diapers.  So cheer up Mom and Dad, you can do this!

when to start

There is no perfect moment but there are a few signs that your toddler is ready for the challenge. 

• Age: Typically between the ages of 2 and 3, although developmental delays may push that timeline back.
• Gender: Girls are normally interested earlier in the potty than boys are, and quicker to pick up the habit.
• Interest: They may start asking questions about the toilet, going potty, potty seats, underwear, etc.
• Schedule: They can go two hours or more and still have a dry diaper.
• Logistics: They can do all the things you need to do to be a successful toilet tamer – sit upright, pull up and down pants and underwear,  follow instructions, etc.
• Your mental health: Are you ready? It takes commitment, time, energy, focus, determination and plenty of practice and praise. Try not to tackle multiple other priorities at the same time.

what to do

1. Stay positive! No one can perform when they are stressed out.  Make the potty a fun place to sit – read stories, bring a toy.  You will spend more time hanging out in the loo than you ever imagined – embrace the space!
2. Develop a routine.  Sit on the potty at designated times every day that are most likely to get positive results – when your child gets up in the morning, after meal times or snacks, even once every two hours or so.  Explain hygiene – how and when to wipe, flushing and hand washing.
3. Watch for cues. Does your child get red in the face or grunt when they are pooping? Do they stand up to pee? Noticing these things can help you set up the routine from #2 (on the list… not the other #2… you know what I mean!)
4. Praise – then praise again. Make a big deal of seeing the poo-poo in the potty.  Enjoy the whooshing noise as the toilet is flushed.* Use ways that your child values the most to encourage their behavior. Tell them what a good job they are doing, give them stickers, share extra hugs, plan a trip to the playground – whatever means the most to them.
5. Accidents happen.  Don’t sweat it.  Whether you are 3 or 33, sometimes you just don’t make it to the bathroom! Clean up the mess and refer to # 1 (on the list… sheesh!).

These are the basics but there are all sorts of other add-ons to this list that any Google search will provide but staying positive and calm will overcome all hurdles in the end. Here’s to positive pottying!

*Some kids are really frightened by automatic flushing toilets in public restrooms – be advised.