Top Tips For Potty Training

Patience is a virtue when it comes to potty training. Don’t rush this milestone as everyone is different. The average age is to begin the process at around 2 years old however some children may be ready sooner or later than this.

The biggest mistakes that parents can make is:

Start before your little one is ready – just because you’re ready, doesn’t mean they are developmentally ready yet.
- This can overall lead to a longer period of time in trying to potty train.
- You may have to abandon the process half way through, which is not ideal as it will send mixed messages!
Put too much pressure on the child.
- This may lead to your little one becoming upset and frustrated at having accidents which may lead to constipation or deliberate ‘holding’ which can be very painful and uncomfortable.

Signs To Look Out For

What signs should I look out for to know if my little one is ready for potty training?

You’re changing fewer nappies
They become more regular with their bowel movements
Your little one is more vocal about needing to use the bathroom – ‘MUM, I WANT TO DO A WEE WEE!!’
Your little one may start to turn their nose up at having a dirty nappy

7 Top Tips

Top Tips For Potty Training

Wait until your child is ready
Take it one step at a time
Get the right equipment!
Don’t flush in front of them straight away – this sometimes can scare your little one into believing that part of them is being flushed away and they may become upset.
Stop offering drinks at least one hour before bedtime
Learn to recognise the signs that your little one needs the bathroom as they may not always vocalise it in time.
Don’t worry about night time training at the start.

Don’t Forget…

It is so so important to remember that everything will happen in time.

Your child is not a failure for not becoming potty trained overnight.

You are not a failure if your child is not potty trained overnight.

This stage, like so many others, will pass by in a blink so make sure to find enjoyment in it. There will be moments when you both laugh and cry. Those laughing moments will make it all worthwhile…plus they make great stories for their 18th birthday party!