You'll be able to potty train your toddler sometime between there second and third birthdays. By the age of three, most
children are dry in the day although the majority still need nappies at night.
On average, most children begin learning to use a potty by around their second birthday, but as with everything in children's
development, each child is different. Up to the age of 20 months, toddlers' bladders empty often, making it difficult for
them to master holding on for the loo.
Follow your child's lead - when he's ready to use a potty he'll let you know. Don't feel pressured by other mothers who
state, "Oh, my daughter was out of nappies by now" or by what your mum did, trust your own instinct.
Sometimes parents find it easier to potty train their children in summer, when toddlers can run around with fewer clothes
on. It can take longer for boys to learn, especially as they also have to master weeing while standing up. Most boys learn
sitting down first. It is great for a dad to teach his son to stand up when he is ready and you can get a little step to help
him reach.
Watch for the signs that your child may be ready to learn to use the potty,
- do they stay dry for a couple of hours each day
- do they show when a bowel movement is taking place, by squatting or making a grunting sound for example
- are they letting you know when they want to be changed when there nappy is soiled.
- do they take an interest when you, your partner go to the toilet
There are times when it is better not to start potty training your child, such as when:
- there is a new baby in the house
- they are being moved from a cot into a bed
- they are starting a new childcare arrangement
- there are family relationship problems
- you are moving house
Tips on potty training
- Be positive and upbeat show the change as something exciting. Give lots of praise whenever your child manages sit on the
potty. Stress how grown up and clever they are.
- Don't rush things. Sometimes if you start teaching later, it takes less time. Toddlers over two and a half may learn almost
overnight.
- Expect to have setbacks and don't make a fuss about them. Learning to use the toilet is just like other skills your toddler
learns it takes time.
- Give your toddler clothes that can be pulled down or up easily. You may also want him to wear training pants at first,
to cope with those inevitable accidents.
- Take your child to pick out the potty and toilet seat. Never force your child to sit on the potty. This will only upset
them and won't make the process any faster.
- It always takes longer for a child to learn to stay dry at night. When they start having the occasional dry nappy in the
morning, it's a good sign that the time is right to try going without a nappy.
- Remember to get your toddler to wash their hands afterwards, so that using the potty or toilet is associated with hand
washing from the start.
