Tips for Potty Training
Potty training can be exhausting. It may seem there is no end in sight, or you may feel you are doing it all wrong. First, realize that it will be a gradual process and that there is hardly ever a right or wrong way. There are so many methods, and varying views on potty training. Here you will learn some of the signs that your little one may be ready to begin this important process in their life.
Once successful with potty training, your child will have a newfound sense of accomplishment, pride, and self esteem. The time and struggles it may require are rewarded one hundred times over!
Signs your toddler is ready for potty training
Everybody you talk to will have their own description of when a toddler is ready to for potty training. There normally isn’t a defined path in knowing for sure. However, below are some of the signs you can watch. If you answer yes to a majority of these then it may be time to consider beginning your journey through potty training!
• Does your child let you know when they need their diaper changed? It could be by telling you in complete sentences, or motioning to you in their own way.
• Do they often imitate you or others?
• Are they showing curiosity of yours and/or their genitals? Do they seem interested in the toilet, and what you are doing when you use the bathroom?
• Do they talk about pee pee and poo?
• Can your little one follow simple directions?
• Are you noticing they sleep all the way through a nap without wetting their diaper?
• Can they sit and keep their attention on one thing for several minutes without becoming distracted easily?
Chances are, as mentioned above, if you can say yes to most of these questions you are ready or near ready for potty training. Now you may be wondering what exactly you need to do to potty train your little one.
Before starting, there are some things you should know to avoid. Don’t start potty training if there is another big event happening in their life. For example, if you are in the process of moving it may be best to wait until you are settled. If they have never slept well and you are primarily working on teaching them to sleep through the night, you may want to wait. You just don’t want to overwhelm them, or try to do too much at once.
Also don’t put an expectation or time limit on the training. By this I mean do not mark on your calendar the date they will be completely potty trained. Sometimes it takes longer, sometimes it will be easier. Don’t expect them to be nighttime potty trained too fast; this will be a gradual process!
All in all, the time and effort put into potty training can be reduced if you take your time and follow their lead. It is a journey of love, and one of the biggest accomplishments they, as you will ever make.
