It isn’t always easy to know what your child is ready for. Are they really ready for solid foods? Can they eat a cookie or have a cup of regular milk? Potty training is no different. It is difficult to know when they may be ready, but there are clues that you can look for when trying to figure out if your child is truly ready to tackle toilet training with your help.
The First Signs of Toilet Readiness
The first stage of potty training will begin with you simply observing your child and talking to them about bodily functions. For instance, you should talk about them being wet or dirty, give it a name. Talk about the toilet, introduce them to a toilet by allowing them to sit on it, and encouraging them to ask questions.
The key is to not push them before they are ready. You have to encourage it without pushing it. They will let you know when they are ready for something more.
Starting Your Child’s Journey
Your child’s curiosity will often lead to their potty-training success. The more you talk about it, the more your child will want to embrace it. You can start talking to them about how to know before they use their diaper. You can check them and if you find them dry, ask if they feel like they need to go potty. You may also introduce pullup pants rather than diapers.
Committing to the Process
One thing you should never do is assume that using a toilet is something easy. It can be an easy process, but it is one that takes commitment from you and others that you know. Your family and friends should all be aware that you are going to start actively potty training your child. You may even want to clear your schedule to try and focus attention on it. Then, if you have to leave the house, have someone else watch your child that you know will be devoted to it.
Drop Pre-Conceived Ideas
There is no schedule for toilet training. Kids learn at their own pace, and this is no different. Stay calm, ask for help, and try to keep it fun. The rest will fall into place for you and your child. This is going to be a hard lesson, but one that is going to be great if they are ready!
