Signs Your Toddler is Ready for Potty Training

Potty training does not begin at a designated age or size, but rather when a toddler is physically and mentally developed enough for it. This is different for every child and parents shouldn't feel pressured to push their children into anything they're not ready for. Remember, potty training should be done when the time is right, not when the parent is tired of changing diapers. The following are signs that your toddler may be ready to begin:

· Toddler's bowel movements have become more solid, less like the soft stools he/she had as a baby.

· Toddler's bowel movements have become regular.

· Toddler can sit up, stand, and walk without support.

· Toddler shows signs of discomfort or disapproval while he/she is in a dirty diaper.

· Toddler has become more independent and asks to do more things by himself/herself.

· Toddler watches Mommy or Daddy in the bathroom and may mimic bathroom habits.

· Toddler has the ability to pull his/her pants off and on.

· Toddler shows a disinterest in wearing diapers and an interest in wearing underwear.

· Toddler has specific words for his/her urine and feces.

· Toddler can understand the physical signs that he/she needs to go to the bathroom.

It is possible that potty training if the toddler isn't demonstrating all of these signs. However, most of them should be present before any form of transition begins. Again, every child is different. This is not a process that should be rushed or overly emphasized, as that may put too much pressure on the child. Use positive reinforcement ad your child will be potty trained in no time.