Potty training can be a difficult and overwhelming process for parents and children alike. After all, it is a major milestone in a child’s development that requires a lot of patience and guidance. Thankfully, moms around the world have lots of invaluable advice and tips to make the journey from diapers to the toilet a little bit easier. From providing positive reinforcement to understanding the signs that your child is ready, the best tips from parents for potty training can help you, and your little one makes it through this big step with flying colors. So, if you're ready to take on the challenge of potty training, then read on for some of the best advice from parents on how to make it a success!
Signs that your child is ready for potty training
You can never be sure exactly when your child will be ready for potty training, but there are a few signs that you can look out for that may indicate that your child is ready. So if your little one is showing some of these signs, then they may be ready to start potty training.
Understanding and communication
One of the first signs that your child is ready for potty training is an increase in communication. When children are ready to start potty training, they will often ask questions about where the toilet is, when they can use it, and what it’s for. This is because they now understand it at a level that they did not previously, so are ready to use it. Your child should also be able to understand and use the words "pee" and "poop" and be able to tell you when they need to go.
A strong desire to be like their peers
Another sign that your child is ready to potty train is a strong desire to be like their peers. This can sometimes happen when parents are expecting it, but it is usually a lot sooner than expected. Whether it be wanting to wear the same clothes as their friends, or asking for the same toys, this desire is a sign that your child is ready to move away from diapers and start using the toilet.
Understanding the process
Another sign that your child may be ready to start potty training is that they understand the process of using the toilet. If your child is able to empty their bladder and bowels when they are in the toilet, then they are likely ready to start potty training. Your child will also likely be able to sit on the toilet independently, and maybe even flush it, when they are ready to start using it.
Staying dry for longer periods of time
Children who are ready for potty training are able to hold their urine for longer periods of time, usually at least 2 hours.
Positive reinforcement and rewards
Positive reinforcement plays a big part in any child’s success, and that includes potty training. When you use positive reinforcement and reward your child for good behavior, such as sitting on the toilet, going pee or poo, or washing their hands after, it will make a huge difference in their motivation and speed.
Most parents use stickers, or a chart and stickers, to reward their child for good behavior. This will not only encourage your child to keep up their good work, but it will also give them something to look forward to. Rewards for successful potty training should be chosen wisely. While candy, toys, and treats are usually quick favorites, you don’t want your child to associate potty training with a reward only because they’re receiving one afterward. Instead, try rewarding your child with activities they enjoy that don’t involve lots of sugar, toys, or treats.
Tips for making potty training easier
Be ready yourself
When you start potty training, you will want to show your child that the toilet is the correct place to go pee and poop. In order to do this, you will need to spend a lot of time with your child in the bathroom. This means that you will be spending a lot of time sitting on the toilet as well. Finding a seat that is comfortable and easy to clean can make all the difference.
Be consistent
This is the most important thing when it comes to potty training. If you aren’t consistent, your child will never learn the correct way to use the toilet.
Talk to your child
When you start potty training, it is important that you communicate with your child. Let them know where they should go, how they should sit, and how they should clean up after themselves.
Keep Clean Cloths Handy
When your child is learning how to use the toilet, it is important to keep them clean and dry. Make sure you have easy access to lots of clean clothes, as your child is likely to get messy when they are learning.
Find support
You don’t have to go through this journey alone. There are lots of parents who are going through the same thing as you. You can find support from friends, family, or online.
The importance of patience
Perhaps the most important thing when it comes to potty training is patience. Your child will learn at their own pace, and you need to be patient enough to wait for that. You also need to be patient with yourself. If potty training doesn’t go as smoothly as you had hoped or planned, don’t get frustrated and give up! Try again and keep trying until it is successful. Remember that your child is going through a huge transition, and they need your patience and understanding. Stay positive, remain patient, and practice lots of patience.
Potty training tools and resources
Potty training panties
Training panties rather than diapers are the best choice for potty training. They are designed with strong urine absorption material to avoid leakage and save outer clothes, socks and shoes from getting wet.
Potty
A potty is the most essential tool for potty training. It is important that your child feels comfortable on their toilet in order to perform well.
Portable Potty
A portable potty seat is versatile for travel, road trips, car, camping, and outdoor as a potty training seat. No matter where you travel, you never have to worry about finding a public restroom. This will solve all your urgent problems. We also love portable potty cups for boys and girls to use in emergencies.
Rewards
Rewards are often used for potty training. It is important to select rewards that are small and will not distract the child from their goal. Keep it simple and fun.
Books
Reading is a great way to teach children new skills. There are many books available that can help you while potty training your child.
Toilet Color Changing Sticker
Some kids resist potty training because they just dread sitting on the potty, even if they use a potty they like. Kids are adventurous beings and making the most mundane activity fun for them will make your life much easier. You can use potty stickers that magically reveal a photo upon contact with urine. Your little one will be looking forward to going pee pee just to find out the next surprise photo.
Potty Training Toilet Timer Watch
A potty watch will remind your toddler to go to the toilet or use the potty, making it a stress-free experience for you. Your potty-training watch has an easy to setup programmable loop-in timer for 30 mins, 60 mins, 90 mins, 2 hours, and 3 hours to remind your little ones when they need to go potty. The timer can also be turned off at nighttime or whenever you like.
What to do when potty training is complete
When potty training is complete, you will have conquered one of the biggest milestones a parent can face. Celebrate your success and reward your child with a special treat. This can be anything from new pajamas to a trip to the park, where your child can show off their new skills.
But don’t stop there. Now is the time to look to the future and start thinking about the next big thing your child will be learning. From riding a bike to attending school, there are many exciting milestones ahead. Make the most of this exciting time in your child’s life, and revel in the joys and challenges that come along with being a parent.
