Potty training tips

Moving from nappies to underwear can seem daunting for both parents and children, but with these handy potty training tips the process will be much easier. 

When do you start potty training?

The answer to this will vary a little depending on the child. Look for signs that your child might be ready. If your child tells you that they have a dirty nappy or that they are going for a wee, this is a good indication that they're more aware of their bodily functions. 

Start the process at a time when there is nothing major going on at home and you can give potty training your focus. Waiting until your child is 3 will likely make potty training easier as they'll be more aware of needing the toilet.

Don't rush into it- take it easy and don't worry if it doesn't go right!

Potty training tips

Follow these tips to make potty training a breeze!

Allow them to help choose a potty

Take your little one to the shop with you to pick a potty. This helps them feel involved and excited about using it! 

Place the potty in a convenient spot

The bathroom is the ideal spot for the potty as it helps your child understand that the bathroom is the place for going to the toilet. But, if your loo is away from where your child usually is then consider placing it elsewhere. If your child spends a lot of time playing in their room, for example, put it there. 

Have more than one potty around

If your home is over more than one floor, ideally there would be a potty on each floor. While children get used to the urge to go to the toilet they often can't hold on too long! While they potty train being able to get to one quickly means a higher success rate and a positive feeling about their progress (plus less mess for you to clean up!).

Consider using pull ups

Using nappies while potty training can be confusing. If your child is struggling to know when they need the potty, try using pull ups. These mimic the pulling up and down of underwear, but also soak up any accidents. 

If your child seems to be doing ok at potty training with only the occasional mishap, stick to cotton underwear.

Suggest using the potty at certain times

When you're going out suggest they try using the potty before they leave the house (but then take it with you for use on the go). If they also tend to need a poo a certain times, ask them to try sitting on the potty. 

Use easy-to-remove clothes

Make sure that clothes like dungarees are avoided during potty training as they're too hard to remove quickly. Consider using trousers or leggings with elasticated waists that can be easily pulled down. 

Start boys off sitting down to wee

It's much easier for them to get to grips with feeling the urge and simply sitting down rather than worrying about aiming correctly. Worry about that later. 

Also, sometimes a wee and poo will come at once, so sitting at this age is the best way forward to avoid confusion.

Demonstrate using the potty with a favourite teddy

A favourite soft toy can act out for your child how to use the potty. Encourage them to do the same as their cuddly friend. They can also act it out using toys too.

Be prepared for mistakes to be made

There will be times when your child will wet themselves or not make it to the potty on time. Tell them it's ok and nothing to worry about. Potty training is a big step and they will learn from the mistakes as they go. 

Reward success

Each time they successfully use the potty praise them verbally and make a fuss of how well they did. In addition, it can help to reward something little when they manage to use it- a lucky dip bag of tiny, cheap bits and bobs (like 25p bouncy balls or pencils) is a great motivator. Alternatively you may also want to use a reward chart for a treat at the end of the week. The treat needn't be big- a trip to the park or some sweets is enough. 

Consider using a toddler toilet seat and step

Some children will prefer to use the toilet like mummy and daddy. Use a plastic toddler toilet seat and booster step to help them safely use the 'big' toilet, and be on hand to make sure they get on and off without falling.

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