Potty Training
When you make the choice to begin potty training, we will be happy to support you and your child.
It is easy to feel pressured into potty training your toddler at an earlier age but, as with everything in children's development, each child is different - be reassured all children get there in the end!
There is no set age to begin potty training and boys will often be later than girls. Up to the age of two a toddler’s bladder will empty often, making it difficult for them to ‘hold on’ for the potty. In addition, clothing is still tricky to manage. For the majority of children successful potty training will be linked to signs that they are ready rather than their age.
Some tell-tale signs to watch for - your child may be ready to start trying to use the potty:
- Stays dry for a couple of hours each day
- Takes an interest when you, your partner or older siblings go to the toilet
- Has bowel movements at the same time each day
- Can demonstrate when a bowel movement is taking place, by squatting or making a grunting sound for example
- Lets you know he wants to be changed
But it is best to wait if:
- If your child does not show an interest in a soiled nappy and continues to play until you check and change him
- You are expecting a new baby shortly
- You are starting a new childcare arrangement
- You are moving from a cot to a bed
- You are facing disruption like moving house or family difficulties
Potty Pointers
- Don't rush things - sometimes if you start when a child is a little older it takes less time.
- Be realistic – learning to use the potty is just like the other skills your child has had to learn, you didn’t expect them to walk without lots of wobbles on the way!
- Stay positive – if your child has an accident try to react by saying ‘never mind, you’ll get there next time, let’s get you some dry pants’. Give lots of praise to any success.
- Help your child by giving them clothes that are easy to manage.
- Never make your child sit on the potty, this will only upset him and won't make the process any faster.
- Remember to get your toddler to wash their hands afterwards so that using the potty is linked with hand washing from the start.
