The Three Keys to Potty Training
Dreaming of the day your toddler can walk to the bathroom, open the door, do their business, and walk out clean and happy? Here are three key potty training tips to get you there sooner.
Make sure your baby’s ready
Changing poopy diapers will seem like a vacation in comparison to pushing a toddler into potty training before they’re ready.
The first sign of readiness is when they tell you they’re ready to try. You can (and should) drop a few choice hints, but don’t push them into it or you’ll be setting them up to fail.
Of course, your little one telling you they’re ready and them actually being ready are two very different things. In addition to their zealousness, look for these signs:
- They can pull their own pants up and down.
- They have words for bathroom functions and can use them easily.
- They can tell you when they have a full or wet diaper.
- They’re dry more often than not after waking up from a nap.
Once you notice the signs of potty readiness, let them watch you use the toilet. Explain every step, starting with pulling your pants down and ending with washing your hands. It may seem inappropriate, but when it comes to potty training, monkey-see, monkey-do is one of the best strategies you can employ.
Make sure you’re ready
Now that your toddler is ready to go, it’s time for you to get in gear. Start by planning when to potty train. The best time is when there are no major changes in your family’s routine. Most people prefer summer, when the kiddos are spending more of their time outside (read: fewer accidents on the rug).
Also, stock up on rewards you can give your little one for successful trips to the potty. Knowing there’s something in it for them will make them want to try harder. But don’t shame or punish them for accidents. It will take a while to learn what it feels like when they need to go.
The last part of getting ready is to get the supplies you’ll need, like a potty or potty seat.
Once you’ve got a general plan and the gear to put it into action, make sure you communicate your plan with everyone involved in your baby’s care. Consistency is the key to success.
Be patient
Potty training may not work the first time you try, but that’s okay. Wait a few weeks, and then try again. Sooner or later, your toddler will want to use the potty.
And speaking of patience, when they’re on the potty and say that they’re “all done”, they might not be. Get visual confirmation first or wait them out until they go. The extra time in the bathroom will be well worth one less accident.