5 Tips for Potty-Training Success

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are approaching potty-training your toddler:

1. Watch the signs! Does your child follow you into the bathroom? Does he stare at you curiously as if asking you, "What are you doing?" Does he wake up dry from naps occasionally? Is he at least 20 months old? Has he begun to come to you or grab his diaper when he needs to be changed? If your answers are "yes" to these questions, your little guy might be ready to trade in his diaper for a potty.

2. Keep Perspective! Potty training is a stage in your child's life, similar to learning to walk or weaning from bottle or breast. Just as your baby didn't learn to crawl in a day, she won't be potty trained in one day either. Realize as you start out that your child will have accidents. Most likely potty-training will be a two-steps-forward, one-step-back process. Don't set unrealistic goals for your child.

3. Devote the Time! If you are a stay-at-home parent, you have the advantage when it comes to toilet-training. You have the opportunity to invest time and consistency into the process, which will make it go much more smoothly and successfully. Once you have affirmed that your child is ready to begin training, don't be resentful if the process seems to take all of your time for several weeks. Your work early on will pay off in the end.

4. Watch the Clock! If you are serious about getting your toddler to train, don't expect him to come to you begging to use the potty. A good rule is to lead your little one to the bathroom about a half our after he has a drink of more than a few ounces. It is also a good idea to encourage him to use the potty immediately after naps and before bed. These are times when you are likely to have success. Also, try running the water in the bathroom sink if your child is hesitant to "go", you may be surprised at your success!

5. Use Incentives! I can't believe how many uses I have found for the Cheerio! I used to give my son a small handful of Cheerios after every successful bathroom-visit. This got him excited about his reward and much more compliant when I asked him to try to use the potty. Don't be alarmed, you won't have to use incentives forever. Once potty training is well-established, edible re-enforcers are easily phased out.