Potty training is a process. There is no right way, you should do what is right for your family. Like most things with children, consistency and patience are important.
Signs of readiness
Different kids are ready to potty train at different times. For potty training to be successful, children need to be able to connect the urge to void with the action of going to the bathroom. Additional signs of readiness including being able to manipulate clothing, staying dry for longer stretches (2 or more hours) and the ability to follow directions.
Potty training is largely behavioral. Kids will succeed faster if they are interested in learning to use the potty and have shown a desire for the associated independence. Forcing potty training or making it a battle can backfire, make the process much more challenging, and is a common cause of constipation in this age group.
Things to consider
- Praise success, but don’t criticize mistakes. Try not to let your child see frustration from adults over potty training. Accidents will happen, it’s a learning process.
- An adult sized toilet can be overwhelming and challenging for little children. Purchasing a small potty or seat can help the process succeed.
- Additional benefit - small potties can be used outside the bathroom, so kids don’t have to run as far when they’re first learning to pee on the potty!
- Pay close attention to signs your child needs to go to the bathroom (the potty dance, crossed legs, holding themselves etc). If you see these signs, encourage them to try the potty. This will help them learn to connect the feeling and the action.
- Younger potty training often takes longer. It’s fine to start earlier, but important to keep your expectations realistic.
- Daytime and nighttime potty training often do not occur at the same time. Nighttime dryness may not be achieved until 5-7 years of age, which is normal.
- Tacking potty use onto routines – meal times, getting ready for bed etc. – can help promote success
- Regressions happen. Keep responses consistent and avoid punishment or shame
Stool withholding – a common issues
Learning to poop on the potty often takes longer than peeing. For some kids it’s related to fear or control. Make sure your child has lots of water and fiber to reduce the risk of constipation, because hard poops teach kids that pooping on the potty is painful and can lead to them holding their poop in. Having kids sit on the potty after meals can help promote regular stooling. Make sure their feet are on the floor or a stool, as it’s harder to poop with your feet dangling. For many kids, they struggle to sit long enough to poop, so having some games or books readily available can helps with relaxation and patience. We’re here to help if you’re struggling!
Additional Information:
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/toddler/toilet-training/Pages/default.aspx