Moving on from diapers is a big accomplishment, but potty training can be an intimidating process for children and caregivers. Like any new skill, teaching a child to use the toilet is most effective when it’s an engaging and consistent process. Following a few important steps along the way can help ease the transition, making it less stressful (and maybe even fun) for everyone in your family.
Below, learn more about the potty-training process, and how you can set up your child for success as they learn to use the toilet.
Expose Your Child to Toileting Early On
Before you begin potty training, slowly introduce the bathroom and toilet to them. Consider getting a potty chair for them to explore or play with while fully clothed. Potty-training related books or videos can also help familiarize your child with the idea of going on the toilet.
Introduce Potty Language and Cues
By the time your child is 18-20 months old, start introducing common bathroom language, such as “poo,” “pee,” and “potty,” to get them used to the concept of using the toilet. You can also point out classic “potty signs” such as grabbing at their clothes or crossing their legs to help them understand when it’s time to go to the bathroom.
Look for Signs Your Child Is Ready
Your potty-training journey is more likely to be successful if you wait until your child is ready. For example, they may show interest in the toilet or begin staying dry for longer periods of time. Before you start, your child should be able to sit down and stand up on their own and communicate with you that they need to use the bathroom. It can also help if your child can pull their pants up and down and wash their hands.
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Lead By Example
Seeing a caregiver use the bathroom can also make using the toilet less scary for a young child. Show your child that going to the bathroom on the toilet is part of your normal family routine by taking them into the bathroom when you use it. You can also share toilet cues in real time to help your child begin noticing when they need to go. For example, you could say, “I feel like I need to go pee right now. I’m going to go to the bathroom and try.”
Schedule Bathroom Breaks
Consistency is key when teaching a child a new skill. Before your child begins going on their own, schedule times in your routine to try going potty on the toilet. For example, you could habitually have your child try to go potty when they wake up, after meals and before bed (in addition to going when they show signs of needing to go).
Make the Process Fun
Motivate your little one by letting them choose their own potty and potty-training underwear if possible. You can also introduce incentives, such as stickers, to give your child when they try the potty or use it successfully. A sticker chart in or near the bathroom is a great way to track progress visually, which may be motivating to your toddler.
Praise Your Child’s Efforts
It’s easy to get frustrated when your child isn’t catching on to potty training, but kids thrive on positive reinforcement. Always praise your child for trying the toilet and avoid negative language or punishment when your child refuses to try or has an accident.
Enlist an Expert if Needed
Potty training can be a time-consuming and sometimes frustrating process for many families. If you need help deciding whether your toddler is ready to start potty training, or you’d like advice about how to trouble-shoot common issues, your pediatrician is a great place to start. If needed, your pediatrician can refer you to a behavioral health expert for more support.
