Before you embark on the potty training journey with your little one, I’ve put together some really key points to help you before you get started. Remember, every child develops at a different rate, so don’t feel pressured to race against time.
1. DON'T begin if there is a change in circumstance – for example: your toddler has been unwell, there’s a new baby in the family, you’ve moved house, your little one has changed daycare or if there are any problems within the household. Toddlers love to feel secure in their surroundings, so if there has been a change in circumstances at home, it would be better to wait a month or two and let things settle down before you start potty training.
2. DON'T start too early – Starting too early when your toddler is not able to communicate, express their feelings, or recognize their bodily functions can lead to failure. Make sure your little one is showing all the signs they are ready before you begin.
3. DON'T put a time limit on it – It’s important not to set your expectations too high or impose a time limit on potty training. Some little ones can get the hang of it in days, while for others it might take weeks or even months to become dry. Rushing the process will only lead to regression, so take your time and success will follow.
4. DON'T become cross – Potty training can be frustrating for both you and your toddler, but remember that it’s a big step for your toddler to suddenly remember unprompted to use the potty/bathroom. Little ones don’t like to disappoint their parents, so try not to get upset with your child for accidents or not wanting to sit on the potty/bathroom toilet. Instead, turn your frustration into lots of encouragement using upbeat and positive language such as “Mommy/Daddy is so proud of you for trying.” Don’t forget—practice makes perfect.
But what about the do's?
1. DO talk to your child about potty training before you start – It’s always good to have a potty-training storybook to read to your little trainer at least a week before you start. This will take them from the unknown and create an exciting build-up to the big day, giving them the desire to potty train and become a big boy/girl.
2. DO start when your toddler is showing signs of readiness – Unless your circumstances are about to change, which may affect consistent training, if your toddler is showing most or all of the key signs, they are ready. There’s no need to delay until spring or summer.
3. DO transition from diapers/pull-ups to underwear – Make sure you use big girl/boy underwear and get those diapers/pull-ups off during the day. It’s so important for your toddler to make that transition and understand that they are now a big boy/girl and don’t need diapers/pull-ups during the day anymore. Many parents tend to use diapers/pull-ups as well as underwear to avoid accidents and for going out of the home, but I always train children with just underwear. If a diaper/pull-up is used during training, it can make toddlers lazy and lead to accidents and regression as they know the diaper/pull-up is there for protection. Using both diapers/pull-ups and underwear will only confuse your toddler and send mixed messages.
4. DO take your potty/trainer seat out and about with you – Trying to find a bathroom quickly when you’re out can be tricky, and if your toddler has an accident outside the home, it can really knock their confidence. For the first few weeks of potty training, it’s a good idea to take your potty with you wherever you go, as your toddler will usually give very little notice when they need to go.
5. DO talk to your babysitter/childcare provider – Different childcare settings require different things regarding potty training. Some will expect your child to be fully potty trained before they attend, while others are more relaxed and happy to support your efforts at home. Speak to your babysitter or daycare provider and discuss with them that you are about to start potty training. Inform them of how you’ll be doing this, what program you’ll be following, and how to reward and praise your little one. This must always remain consistent.
6. DO get the family involved – Talk to grandparents, aunties, uncles, etc., and let them know that your little one is starting their potty-training journey. This will create extra encouragement that’s very special for your little trainer.
As a parent, you know your child best, but I hope these tips have been valuable in helping you get started on your potty training journey and given you the confidence to help your little one with this milestone.
You’ve got this!
AJ xxx
