Potty Training 101: Are You Ready?

Parents are typically both eager and enthusiastic about the prospect of potty training. They are ready to say goodbye to diapers and constant trips to the bathroom and hello to a new stage of independence. Many questions may come to mind. Is there a foolproof method to follow? What can I expect? Is my child ready? Am I ready?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most children are bowel and bladder trained by age four. They typically start training between the ages of two and three. However, potty training can begin as soon as a child shows signs that they are ready!

Readiness signs include:

• Staying dry for more extended periods
• Expressing interest or curiosity
• Communicating that they have a dirty diaper
• Shows signs that they need to use the restroom
• Communicating that they need to use the restroom
• Asking to sit on a toilet or potty chair

Look for natural signs of readiness and resist the urge to push potty training. And make sure they can follow simple directions which will be important through the process. Remember, every child is unique and will progress in their way and at their own pace. It is normal for a child to have a successful day followed by an accident-filled one. If your child's progress fluctuates, stay calm and consistent. It is natural to feel disappointed or frustrated sometimes, but it's vital not to express those feelings to your child. Patience is the key to success in potty training.

When achieving success in potty training, parents often credit the three "Rs"-Routines, Rewards, and Reminders. Establishing a regular schedule where your child sits on the potty or a potty chair every one to two hours can be beneficial. Children often want to get up quickly, so consider setting a timer for one to two minutes. This is enough time for them to succeed without getting frustrated. It's also okay to give them something to do while they sit, however pick something enjoyable. Offering a book or placing the potty chair near the television can help. Remember, the less stress your child has, the easier it may be for them to take care of business.

Remember that your childcare providers and school staff are your partners in potty training. Keeping a similar potty-training routine at home and school fosters faster progress and positive results. Communicate and work together for the best results!

All the experts agree that positive reinforcement works. When your child goes potty, consider rewarding them with stickers or a small treat. Some parents hang a sticker chart up in the bathroom or even on the refrigerator for all to see. Others offer a tiny treat such as mini-marshmallow or chocolate chip. We've even seen some give money in the form of pennies, dimes, nickels, or quarters. Yes, in this rare instance, bribery of all types can work and is widely endorsed. Celebrate accomplishments and show your child that you are proud. And when little gifts are met with praise and encouragement, it's the perfect recipe for progress. A little love goes a long way.

Finally, don't forget that we all need reminders. Remind your child when it's time to go, time to wipe, time to wash hands, and time to repeat. Remind them that you are proud of them, even if it's just for trying. Potty training is about practice; that's why they call it training. Remind them of that, too. While you may feel like a broken record, you'll sing great songs together when efforts finally bear fruit!

At Little Jewels Learning Center, we understand that transitioning to toilet independence can be exciting and challenging for parents and toddlers. After twenty years of childcare experience, we still laugh, smile, and celebrate with our families through these fun and often funny developmental stages. We are here to provide potty training support with patience and a positive attitude. We look forward to celebrating with you and your child as they continue their path to independence.