Potty training is a huge milestone for your toddler-and there is nothing like the feeling of throwing away your last pack of diapers! Every child is different, but most kids are ready to start training some time after their second birthday. Start looking for signs of readiness in your child-attempting potty training too early can actually delay the process, and make your child fear and dislike the idea. Below are some of the signs that your toddler is ready to start a potty training program:
1. Your toddler is at least 18 months old. Most kids don’t have the physical coordination and cognitive skills for potty training until they are past their second birthday. Some children may be ready earlier, but you shouldn’t try potty training until your child is at least 18-20 months old, even if they are showing other signs of readiness.
2. Your toddler is physically ready. Your child may be ready to potty train when he is able to stay “dry” for several hours at a time, can walk, sit down, and stand up on his own, and can pull clothing on and off with assistance.
3. Your toddler is showing interest in the potty: If your toddler is showing interest in the potty, following older siblings into the bathroom, or wants to wear “big kid” pants, she is getting used to the idea of using the potty. Toddlers love to mimic adults and older siblings, and you can use this natural inclination to your advantage when it is time to potty train!
4. Your toddler tells you he has a dirty or wet diaper: If your child is letting you know that his diaper is wet, or expresses discomfort with a dirty diaper, he is on track to begin potty training soon. A child that is getting ready for potty training will often remove a soiled diaper or indicate that a new one is needed.
5.Your toddler can follow simple instructions: If your toddler is able to put toys away, or get a ball or toy when asked, she may have the cognitive skills needed to understand what potty training is all about.
6. Your toddler has a stable routine. If you are expecting to move, adding another baby to the family, going back to work, or know some other large change is coming, hold off on the potty training until your toddler is on a stable routine. Having a predictable schedule will help once you start training as well-if you introduce the potty after meals and before nap-times each day, your child will naturally work the potty into her daily routine.
When your toddler is reliably displaying some or most of the signs above, it may be time to introduce the potty for the first time. Be patient, and if your child seems unready in any way, put the potty away for a few weeks before trying again.
When Your Child Is Showing Signs – Kickstart The Process IMMEDIATELY!
**Learn How To Kickstart Potty Training And Have Your Child Trained In 3 DAYS!