Toilet Training Tips

Do you have a toilet learning strategy? We've helped many children learn to use the toilet and have learned many tips and tricks along the way. Keep reading to learn how to help your child learn to use the toilet easily and independently.

Toilet Training Isn't Your Job

Just as a child naturally learns to walk when he's ready, he will learn to use the toilet when he's ready - there is no "right" age by which all children should be using the toilet. Toilet learning is as individual to a child as learning to walk and should be a positive experience. If your child is ready it will take only a short time; problems in toilet learning usually arise because adults don't pay attention to the child's lack of readiness.

Pick the Right Time to Start Toilet Learning

You can begin your program of toilet learning at home whenever you feel your child is ready. Some signs of readiness to watch for are:

Toilet Learning - Potty Seat

Not every sign needs to be there for you to decide to start toilet learning. If you notice a few signs, your child may be ready to try, but don't start toilet learning during a stressful time or period of change in the family (moving, new baby, etc).

Ready, Set, Go!

Once your child seems ready to start toilet learning you need to choose a potty seat or potty chair. Include your child in this choice to help her get excited about using the toilet. Invite your child to sit on the toilet periodically throughout the day and whenever she shows signs of needing to urinate or have a bowel movement. Explain to her what you want him to do, then only have her sit for a few minutes at a time. Don't force your child to sit on the potty because it may become a power struggle.Be ready to delay toilet learning if she shows resistance, waiting until she's ready will hasten the process. Empty dirty diapers into the toilet to show "where poopy goes" but be aware that many children are afraid of the sound of a flushing toilet.

Be careful not to push your child too fast, or punish mistakes and accidents. Think of learning to use the toilet as learning to walk - you wouldn't be upset at your child for falling down when learning to walk, so try not to be upset by the inevitable toileting accident. Remember to go at your child's pace and give lots of encouragement and praise when she is successful.