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Choose the right time -

When it comes to successful potty training, choosing the right timing is paramount. Remember that all children are different and will be ready at different times.

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Choose the right time -

Signs that your child is ready for potty training include knowing when they have a wet or dirty diaper, or knowing when they need to pee, and maybe even telling you so.

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Choose the right time -

Many children are ready between 2 and 2.5 years, but some children need until they are at least 3. Be patient and remember that encouragement is usually the way forward.

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Choose your words - Choosing the words you will use to speak about potty training is also important. You want to avoid creating negative connotations with the topic.

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Choose your words -

Negative words such as 'dirty' or 'stinky' are therefore best avoided. You may also find it helpful to talk to your child about their diaper changes as you do them.

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Choose your words -

This will help your child to get used to the topic, which will be new to them. Changing their diapers in the bathroom will also help them learn that that is where people go.

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Prepare the equipment -

Keep the potty in the bathroom. If the bathroom is upstairs, keep a second one downstairs, so your child can reach one easily at any time from wherever they are.

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Prepare the equipment -

The idea is to make sitting on the potty a part of everyday life for your child. You may even like to take them to the potty with you when you go out.

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Prepare the equipment -

If you have an older child, it can be very helpful for your younger children to see them using the potty or toilet. Children learn very well by watching and copying.

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Schedule potty breaks -

Have your child sit on the potty right after they wake up, both in the morning and after naps. They should then have a potty break of a few minutes at two-hour intervals.

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Schedule potty breaks -

Sit with your child while they are on the potty, either reading a book or playing with toys. Allow your child to get up if they want, and be sure to offer praise, even if they just sit there.

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Schedule potty breaks -

For boys, bear in mind that it is better to master urination sitting down, and only move to standing up once they have completed their bowel training.

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Get there fast -

Be sure to respond quickly when you notice signs that your child may need to go. Signs to look out for include squirming and/or squatting.

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Get there fast -

Help your child to become familiar with these signs themselves, stop what they are doing when the recognize the signs, and head to the potty.

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Get there fast -

Be sure to praise your child every time they tell you that they have to go, and keep them in loose clothing so as to reduce the risk of accidents.

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Explain hygiene - It is of course important to teach your child the proper and hygienic way to use the bathroom. This is important for all children, but especially for girls.

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Explain hygiene -

Remember to teach girls the importance of wiping from front to back, so as to prevent the potentially harmful spread of germs.

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Explain hygiene -

And, of course, you should impress upon all children the importance of washing their hands thoroughly after every time they use the potty or toilet.

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Ditch diapers -

After your child has made it two weeks with successful potty breaks and remaining dry during the day, it may be time to ditch the diapers.

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Ditch diapers -

Celebrate the transition to training pants or underwear, but be sure to let your child return to diapers if they cannot stay dry.

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Ditch diapers -

You may consider using a positive enforcement method such as a sticker or star chart. Try not to use sweets as a reward, however.

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Complete day time training first -

Bear in mind that day time training is considerably easier and will come a lot quicker than night time and nap time training.

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Complete day time training first -

Most children do not start staying dry at night until at least age 5. In the meantime, be sure to use disposable training pants and mattress covers while your child sleeps.

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Complete day time training first -

If your child is not getting the hang of day time training within a few weeks, take a break. Pushing your child when they are not ready can cause a difficult power struggle.

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Be prepared for accidents -

It is very important to bear in mind that potty training is a process and there will be setbacks. Your child will have accidents and it’s important to deal with them properly.

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Be prepared for accidents -

The most important thing to remember is not to scold, discipline, or shame your child if they have an accident. Instead, try to reassure them that they will get there.

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Be prepared for accidents -

It is a good idea to keep a change of underwear and clothing handy, especially if your child is at school or in child care.

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Know when to seek help -

If your child is showing signs of being ready to use the potty but is having trouble learning, you might consider talking to their doctor.

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Know when to seek help -

If you are concerned, the doctor will always be able to give you guidance and check to see if there is an underlying problem causing your child’s difficulties.

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Know when to seek help -

Bear in mind that a child with disabilities may have more difficulty learning to use the potty. Charities such as Contact offer support for families with disabled children.

Sources: (Mayo Clinic) (NHS)

See also: Celebs who chose to homeschool their kids

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