Potty Training 101: How to Get Through Training with Numbers One and Two.

Timing and patience are the two keys to potty training success. Since it’s a big step for parents and children alike, both are needed to ensure successful potty training. How do you start the whole daunting process? By taking action back, arming yourself with lots of patience-building techniques (like the old standby: deep breaths and counting slowly backward from 10), and making sure you and your little one are ready to embark on this journey. Let’s look at the two critical factors in successful training and examine them:

Timing

How can you tell if it’s the right time to start? Is your child ready? What age is appropriate? Well, first of all, there is no ‘magic’ age. Children are prepared at different times. It’s up to parents to check for the ‘cues’ that let them know it’s an excellent time to begin training. For some children, it may be as young as one year, and for others, it could be over two. What are you looking for? Here are some cues:

– Does your child seem interested in the Potty or wearing ‘big’ kid underwear?

– Does your child tell you when they need to go?

– Does your child stay dry most of the day?

– Can your child pull their pants up and down?

– Does your child tell you when their diaper is wet or soiled?

If you answered ‘yes’ to most of the above, your child is likely ready to begin training. It’s important to remember that any significant life change, like a new sibling, starting a new pre-school, or even taking a trip, would be a poor time to start training. Wait until your child is in a steady routine and you have the time to dedicate to training.

Patience

There are many different ways to start training. Some parents go ‘cold turkey and dress their children in underwear. This is one way to do it – but be prepared for quite a few accidents and messes. This, however, is generally considered the quickest way. Another option is to set a potty chair in areas where your child spends most of their time, such as a playroom. Encouraging your child to discover the Potty on their own and rewarding them for using the Potty is another option. Whichever method you choose, remember to be patient with the process. Even when your child has ‘accidents,’ be encouraging and tell them ‘there’s always next time.’ Use books and videos to help them understand their bodies and the elimination process.

In the wise words of one sage pediatrician, “No child has ever gone off to college in a diaper.” Remember that it is a journey for you and your child!

Potty training book recommendations:

The New Potty, by Gina and Mercer Mayer

Once Upon a Potty, by Alana Frankel

Going to the Potty, by Fred Rogers (yes, Mr. Rogers)

You Can Go to the Potty, Dr. William Sears