Potty training is a phase that every child will need to go through at some point but it is often considered by many to be a traumatic experience for both the child and the parents. But by following these ten simple tips, you can avoid much of the fuss and bother surrounding this otherwise ordinary life skill:
1 – Know when your child is ready
Each child is unique, so you need to recognize the signs that your child is ready to start potty training. Children develop at different speeds, so you need to begin potty training when they are ready, which is usually around the age of two. You need to slowly introduce the idea of going potty in the potty chair.
2 – Introduce him/her to the toilet
When your child is ready to begin the process of potty training, show him/her the toilet and explain that it is not scary or intimidating. Many people get a little potty and have them sit on it while you are going to the bathroom. If they have any older siblings, have them watch their brother or sister use the toilet. Children love to copy everything other people do.
3 – Develop a reward system
When your child lets you know that they need to go potty, give them some sort of reward. Other accomplishments that merit rewards include pulling their own pants down or sitting on the potty chair by themselves. You might develop a chart and have your child put a sticker on the chart. You will also want to praise them when they go to the potty. Give them a hug, high-five, or just a positive word of encouragement. You can also get a box and put inexpensive gifts in the box. Then, you can have them pick a prize out of the box.
4 – Be patient
Do not let your children see you getting frustrated. You should never use force when potty training and you should never pressure your child into going to the potty. Do not get upset; remain calm and do not punish them for any accidents that they might have.
5 – Use books and videos
There are many potty training books and videos that are directed toward children. Read a potty training book to them, or have them sit in front of the television and watch a video. It could also be a family affair; have the entire family be a part of the potty training.
6 – Engage in a little acting
Sometimes children respond to getting a doll that wets. Your child can practice changing the diapers, and then you could even go over the steps of potty training. Have them put their doll on the potty and flush the toilet. Once again, your child will model and imitate what is done.
7 – Be consistent
It is very important to keep them on a schedule when potty training. Take them to the toilet often, usually about every two hours. Have them sit on the toilet as often as you can. They will potty train at their own pace.
8 – Use diapers or pull-ups?
It is best to gradually progress from diapers to pull-ups. Then, you can eventually go to underwear. At times, you might even let your child run around the house with nothing on their bottom. You’ll just need to be prepared in case of an accident.
9 – Keep in mind what you dress them in
It is easiest for your child if you dress them in shorts or trousers that can easily be pulled down. An elastic waist is ideal as they can be pulled down very quickly without any fiddly fastenings to get to grips with.
10 – Work as a team
You should get everyone you can to help with the potty training. Talk to your child’s daycare provider and teachers at the nursery or church. You need to have frequent communication with everyone that takes care of your child. Make sure that you all are on the same page. This will lessen the confusion for your child. Potty training is just another sign that your child is growing up. Be supportive and encouraging, and your child will be potty trained in no time. It just takes patience and persistence.
About the author: Debbie Wallace has worked in children’s care for several years. She is also a mother of two herself, but has most recently started her own business selling baby clothes to local mothers.
Credits: Photo courtesy of Renato Cardoso.