Potty training is a big milestone for both toddlers and parents. While there are many different approaches, setting your little one up for success is key.
Here are some ways in which you can support your toddler with their potty training experience.
1.Make sure your child is ready
Please know that there is no set age for potty training, but most toddlers are ready between 2 - 3.5 years old, it’s more important that your little one is showing sign of readiness such as:
Their ability to understand and follow instructions
Showing interest in using the toilet, pulling their nappy off, seeing you use the toilet
They can communicate to you that they need a wee or a poo
They have no urinary tract or constipation issues
There are no life events or major changes in your life for the next few weeks, so you can spend time at home whilst training
2. Communication
Before you start potty training, talk to your toddler and explain that you will soon be using the potty/toilet, and they won’t always be wearing a nappy. Remember to keep the conversation positive and fun - if you are anxious about the process, your little one could pick up on this. You can also buy books about potty training and use stuffed toys as role play for using the toilet.
Once you start potty training, keep the communication positive and try not to scald accidents - this is a big learning curve for your little one and it is understandable that they may have bumps along the way,
3. Choices and independence
Toddlers love feeling independent and in control, so incorporate choices as much as you can into potty training like helping you choose their potty, or decorating their potty with stickers. Your little one will also enjoy feeling independent with tasks such as flushing the toilet, washing their own hands, and pulling their own pants back up.
4. Routine
Children love routine and to know what is coming next - once you get into the rhythm of potty training, encourage them to go at set times of the day, for example before nap time, at bedtime, after waking in the morning.
5. Manage your expectation for overnight dryness
Waking your toddler up during the night to take them for a ‘dream wee’ is disruptive to their sleep and is often unproductive. Overnight dryness is something that will come with time as your toddlers bladder matures, the appropriate hormones develop, and their brain is able to receive signals of needing to go to the toilet. This can sometimes take up to age 5 or beyond to fully develop.
Final thoughts
Remember, every child is different. Some take to potty training quickly, while others need more time and reassurance.
Stay patient and supportive. Accidents will happen, try not to make a big deal of them.
Celebrate small wins. Praise your toddler when they use the potty successfully.
With consistency, patience, and encouragement, your little one’s potty training experience can be positive and stress-free.
Need more support with your toddler?
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