Potty Training Tips

We realize that the idea of starting to potty train your child can be a daunting one, but we are here to help. Below is some information to you help you determine if your child is ready to begin potty training, and it they are, how you can prepare for this and make it a positive experience for both you and your child.

Ready

15 Signs of Readiness (your child may show 4 or 5 signs).

Has regular bowel movements
Can stay dry for a few hours or wakes up dry from sleep
Knows that he/she has to go to the bathroom
Understands the association between dry pants and using the potty
Can pull his/her pants up and down
Lets you know when he/she has soiled his/her diaper
Can follow simple directions like “Let’s go to the potty”
Understands potty terms (wet, dry, pee, poop, dirty, and potty)
Can tell you when he/she has to go to the bathroom
Imitates family members
Shows interest and asks questions while watching you
Wants to do things “by myself”
Enjoys washing his/her hands
Gets upset if his/her belongings are not in their proper place
Is 18 months of age or older (not recommended to start before this age)

Set

Ways to Prepare for the Big Day

Dress your child in clothes that are easy to take on and off (avoid) snapping shirts)
Discuss using the toilet with your child
Shop for new underwear with your child (It is not recommended that you let your child wear the underwear prior to beginning training or over their diapers)
“Show” your child how to use the bathroom (siblings and adults can help with this)
Use a gender appropriate model
Have a large supply of clothes easily available (underwear pants, shirts, socks, etc.)
Have plenty of clean supplies (wipes and plastic bags)
Create an inviting environment in the bathroom (step stool, books, decorations, etc.)
Individual potty chairs can be used at home but we ask that you don’t bring them to our centers

Go

Things to Remember Along the Way

Set up a schedule
Encourage your child to “sit” on the potty, but never force them to sit
Don’t have them sit until they produce (be patient and encourage them to try later)
Don’t expect instant success
Adjust the schedule according to your child’s progress
Give positive reinforcement for using the potty (hugs, kisses, clapping, and praises)
Avoid food or bribes as reinforcements for going potty
Make a chart for your child to see his/her progress
Avoid going back and forth between diapers and underwear (try cotton training underwear
Work cooperatively with your child’s early education teachers to ensure consistency between home and school (share your child’s schedule and progress as often as needed)
Remain calm, positive, and supportive at all times
Have your child wash his/her hands after using the bathroom