When we potty trained our son.. I watched the YouTube videos, I made sure that I kept up with the latest knowledge… and still it was a hard process!
I’m happy to tell you that potty training doesn’t have to be filled with frustration and tears. Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned that will help make the process smoother! Buckle up!!!
Tips for potty training:
1. Choose the right time: Potty training is best done when your toddler is ready, which can vary greatly by child. Signs of readiness may include staying dry during naps, understanding what they need to do while on the toilet, having a sense of awareness around their bathroom needs, or being able to follow instructions.
2. Prepare for success: Before you start, make sure you have all the supplies necessary for potty training such as potties, training pants, and a step stool. It’s also helpful to have rewards or incentives such as stickers or small treats for when your toddler is successful in the bathroom.
3. Talk it up: Before starting potty training, talk to your little one about why they want to learn how to use the toilet and what it means to be potty trained. Doing this will help them understand the expectations and get excited about the process!
4. Get comfortable: Make sure that you create an environment where your toddler feels comfortable going to the bathroom by removing distractions such as toys or books from the bathroom area. Also, make sure that you provide lots of positive reinforcement when they do use the toilet correctly so that they learn it’s an activity worth doing.
5. Take your time: Potty training can take some time, so be prepared for a few setbacks and know that it’s totally normal. If accidents happen, just remain positive and do not punish them; use the opportunity as a way to help remind them why they need to use the toilet.
6. Stay consistent: Make sure that you stick with the same routine each day and reinforce good bathroom habits every single time they succeed in using the toilet correctly. This will ensure that they learn quickly and become comfortable with the process.
7. Monitor their fluids: Limit the amount of fluids they take in throughout the day and encourage them to use the bathroom right before bedtime. This will help limit accidents during the night and make it easier for them to get used to using the toilet on a regular basis.
8. Model behavior: Be a role model and show your toddler what good bathroom habits look like by using the toilet yourself. Doing this will help them understand that going to the bathroom is a normal part of life and something they should do as well.
9. Set expectations: Establish clear rules around potty training, such as no playing in the bathroom or running out of the bathroom without washing their hands first. Having these expectations in place will make it easier for your toddler to stay focused on using the toilet correctly.
10. Celebrate success: Rewarding your toddler for using the restroom properly is just as important as reminding them when they don’t follow through with it! A big hug or high five for a job
11. Teach hygiene habits: Make sure you are teaching good hygiene habits such as washing hands after going to the bathroom or flushing afterwards so that your child knows these are important steps that need to be done.
FAQs
Q: Which is better a potty or a toilet?
A: It really depends on the individual and what they are comfortable with. Generally, toddlers prefer potties because of their size and design, but if your toddler is big enough to use a regular toilet, that can be beneficial too! Just make sure you have all the necessary supplies like a step stool so they can reach the toilet comfortably.
Q: How long does it take for a child to be potty trained?
A: Every child is different, so there is no set time frame for when your child will be completely potty trained. On average, though, most children are able to be fully potty trained by age 4 or 5. However, it’s important not to rush them and be patient – it will happen eventually!
Q: What can I do if my toddler is not interested in potty training?
A: If your toddler seems uninterested, try to make the process more fun by using incentives or rewards like stickers when they successfully use the toilet. You can also read books about going to the bathroom and talk about why it’s important for them to learn how to use the toilet. Finally, create a comfortable atmosphere with no distractions so that your little one is feeling relaxed and encouraged to give it a go.
Q: What should I do if my toddler has accidents?
A: Accidents are normal and to be expected when learning how to use the toilet. Whenever one happens, remain calm and don’t punish them – instead take the opportunity to explain why it’s important to use the bathroom correctly. Additionally, make sure to provide lots of positive reinforcement when they do get it right so that they learn it’s an activity worth doing. Finally, ensure your child is getting enough fluids throughout the day but not too close to bedtime so that there are fewer accidents at night.
Q: What if my toddler is afraid of the toilet?
A: It’s normal for children to be anxious when it comes to trying new things. If your toddler is scared of the toilet, try letting them get used to it by sitting on it with their clothes on and reading books or singing songs while they are there. You can also talk about why using the bathroom is important and what a good job they’ll do when they master it. Additionally, make sure you provide lots of positive reinforcement every time your child succeeds in using the toilet correctly. With enough patience and encouragement, your little one will eventually overcome their fear!
Potty training can be trying for both parents and toddlers, but by using these tips you can ensure that the process is as efficient and fun for everyone…. as possible!