Toddler Potty Training Tips: A Parent’s Guide
"Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you."Navigating Toddler Potty Success.
As a first-time girl mom, diving into potty training felt like a daunting task or could indeed be overwhelming. Seeking advice from other moms, reading numerous articles, and researching essentials were my initial steps. The key is to recognize when your toddler is ready for successful potty training. Some may show signs of readiness between 18 months and 4 years old. However, potty training can begin as soon as parents and children feel prepared.
Signs a toddler is ready for potty training:
Interest in Potty Training: Your toddler might start showing interest in using the toilet or potty chair by asking questions or imitating adults.
Staying Dry: If your toddler's diaper stays dry for longer stretches, it may mean they have control over their bladder and are ready for potty training.
Awareness of Bodily Functions: Some toddlers can communicate when they need to pee or poop or they may ask you to change their dirty diaper.
Following Instructions: If your toddler can follow simple commands or instructions.
Independence in Dressing: Being able to undress without help is a positive sign.
It seemed like my daughter was ready for potty training when she was 2, but our first tries didn't work. It was tough juggling work and depending on grandma for babysitting. However it's important to remember that every child is unique and may be ready at different times. If your child shows these signs, it might be time to start potty training.
I started potty training my daughter again when she turned 30 months old. We used a method that involved her being naked or wearing training underwear, and the first week had a lot of accidents. I felt like I was failing, considering she didn't seem bothered by a wet underwear but then a mom from the play center introduced me to the 'Oh Crap Method.' After watching a YouTube video together, we restarted the training. So, we went back to square one. For three consecutive days, she was naked from the waist down, only wearing a dress, and surprisingly, she picked it up quickly. She learned to poop in the potty and became more vocal about needing to go. It was a success, and I rewarded her with treats. Dealing with pee was a bit trickier. I consistently said 'Pee Pee in the Potty,' implemented timed potty sessions, and used cues until she finally understood. While there were only two pee accidents, by the fourth day, we transitioned to 'Commando' mode, she was able to wear loose shorts without underwear and had fewer accidents. I supported her and she did well without a diaper for a few hours outside. She only wore pull-ups for nap and nighttime for about 2 weeks. Then we stopped using pull-ups and never used them again.
Potty-training timeline: (please note every child is different)
1st Week - pull-ups nap/night time
1-3 days: Naked/bare-bottom…you have to pay close attention to their signals for when they need to pee or poop, and quickly take them to the toilet, and there will be a lot of cleaning up on the floor too!
4-7 days: Commando…they can begin wearing shorts that are easier to pull down.
2nd Week: With underwear. this is the time to take short trips, like going to parks, grocery shopping, or visiting the mall. (training underwear nap/night time)
3rd Week: Consider eliminating pull-ups for naps and nighttime. Encourage using the bathroom before and after naps and bedtime. Take more frequent bathroom breaks and introduce using public restrooms. You can also bring a foldable potty seat cover for them. If they are unsure, bring a mini-potty and keep it in your car. (training underwear nap/night time)
I followed this method and schedule with my daughter, and we never had to go back to using diapers. I trusted her and it's been going well. I didn't need to buy waterproof sheets; I let her used training underwear at night, and she hasn't had any accidents so far. Currently, we are only using toddler underwear! Trust your instincts, moms. You know your child best. Keep at it!
Lessons learned:
Readiness is our responsibility; it's not just about being patient but also being consistent and persistent.
Rewards and compliments work really well.
Surprisingly, mastering number 2 preceded number 1.
Potty Training Essentials:
These are the essential items we use for toilet training at home, at the grandparents' house, and when we're out.
Toilet Potty Training Seat with Step Stool Ladder | Training Underwear | Jool Baby Potty Chair | Potty Chair Liners | Travel Potty Seat | BABYBJORN Toilet Trainer | Double up Step Stool
Potty training isn't an overnight achievement. It requires commitment, guidance, and a touch of optimism. We're still on the journey, expecting more successes and the occasional mishap. However, seeing her grasp the concept and use the potty is a significant victory!
