Am I Ready to Begin Potty Training?
Here's What To Do
1
Know that every child is ready for potty training at a different age. Some guidelines:
- I probably do not have the physical control to regulate myself until I am about two years old.
- I might have a more successful experience if I have the verbal skills to tell you when I need to go.
2
We'll have the most success if you let me tell you when I'm ready to start potty training. Here are some signs I might be ready:
- I can stay dry for 2 hours at a time
- I have an awareness of when I wet or soil my diaper, or I tell you before I go
- I show an interest in other people using the toilet or sitting on a toilet myself
- I understand simple directions
- I enjoy doing things "all by myself"
- I can pull down my pants and wash my hands with help
3
If I seem ready, consider the timing of the process. If big changes or stressors are happening in my life (like: moving homes, a new baby in the family, starting a new school, etc.), it may not be the best time to start.
4
Know that once we start potty training, accidents will happen!
- I may have wetting accidents during the first year after training begins. It's hard for me to know when my bladder is full.
- Once I am mostly trained during the day, I will probably still continue to need a diaper or training pants at night for a while.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Before launching into potty training, notice if I'm showing signs of readiness.
E
Engage:
- "Mommy's going potty. See, I'm going in the toilet. Now I'll wipe, flush, and wash my hands."
- Praise me if I tell you that I need a new diaper or if I tell you before I "go."
E
Encourage:
- If I'm showing signs of being ready, consider introducing a training toilet or potty seat just for me to sit on and become familiar with. I can "play potty" before I try to actually use it.
- Play pretend potty with stuffed animals.
R
Reflect:
- Does it seem like I'm ready to begin potty training? If yes, when might be a good time to start?
Not quite ready?
Help reinforce my own natural cues by recognizing my diaper patterns and changing me right away.
Ready for more?
Introduce a training potty seat and encourage me to sit on it.
As your child grows...
They will become ready to officially start the potty training process.