Potty Time: It's Never Too Early to Try the Toilet!

The other day my 18-month-old daughter did something amazing. She tottered up to me and patted her diaper, showing me she was ready for me to change her. My brain was reeling with excitement as I crunched numbers figuring how much money I'd save each month if I didn't have to buy diapers, wipes, and ointments. But, was she ready to take things to the next step, or just getting tired of walking around in a full diaper?

Most kids start potty training around 18-months of age, but others might not be ready until the age of 3 or even 4. Paying attention to your child's clues might be the first step to trying the toilet. Being prepared is an important part of potty training success.

Getting Started

Once you notice your little one starting to pull off their own diaper, mimic sitting on the potty, or showing that they are aware of having a bowel movement (and wanting to be changed after), it's time to try sitting on the potty. Getting up on that big potty might be challenging for your child, or even a bit scary, so investing in a small potty or a step stool to help her get up to the seat is a wise buy. If you're ready to be diligent with potty training, sitting your child on the toilet once every two hours is a good start. She might not use the potty each time, but she's getting comfortable sitting on her new throne and seeing if her body is ready to use it. Even boys benefit from starting to use the potty while sitting, and it will save your bathroom floor from lots of scrubbing.

Go Easy

Don't expect to see potty training results overnight. You're still going to need those diapers and pull-ups. Setting realistic expectations for potty training is the best way to keep everyone happy and not turn learning how to use the toilet into a stressful experience. Your child may get frustrated about potty training if they feel pressured to use the potty or that they are disappointing parents if an accident happens. Keeping a positive attitude and understanding there will be blunders along the way will ensure your child feels good about transitioning from their diapers. Make sure to share with others, such as caregivers and relatives, your plans for potty training so they can use the same methods as you are at home.

Celebrate Milestones

When your child hits a milestone, such as successfully using the potty without prompting, make sure to celebrate. Turn the event into a reason for baking a special cake with your child or enjoying a special activity together. Make sure to show your potty trainer that you're proud of her potty training progression. Using a start chart to gain rewards is also a successful way of encouraging kids to stay dry. Once a child reaches a determined amount of stars, he can trade his stars towards a special treat or for cash, which works well for older potty trainers. To a 3-year-old, $1.00 feels like a million!

I think for now I'll sit my daughter on the toilet occasionally and see which direction we go. I want her to feel confident and positive about checking out the potty - not overwhelmed thinking she has to use it. In no time, she'll be using it like a pro!