10 things you need to know before you start potty training

If, like me, you are about to begin the dreaded adventure that is potty training, fear not! I asked a few mums to help me (and you) out!

So, before you and your toddler embark on the potty journey, read our quick potty training tips on things you need to know for a smoother ride!

1. Are you ready to go for it?

Most of the mums I have spoken to about potty training tell me that it was by far one of the most stressful milestones to conquer in the early years – and that goes for both parent and child. Make sure you are both ready to go for it.

Children are normally potty trained between the ages of 2 and 3, so don’t feel like you have to rush to get it over and done with as soon as they start to walk!

2. Watch out for the signs

Kids have a funny way of telling us what they need, when they need it. But, when you are preparing to potty train, it’s important that you check if your toddler is ready for it.

Physically, children need to be stable on their feet both when walking and running, have regular and well-formed bowl movements and urinate a lot at any one time. However, they also need to be able to communicate that they need to go to the toilet and be confident with the actions to do so.

3. Time and time again

Every child is different and while some will breeze through like they had never worn a diaper before, others may not. So do know that you could find yourself attempting to start potty training a few times before your little one actually gives it a go.

Some mums feel that taking a week off work during the early stages of potty training can help with consistency but be careful not to rush the process – don’t worry, your kid will eventually get it!

4. Your toddler will resist at first

Be prepared for some serious resistance and maybe even watch out for a potty being hurled across the room every now and then. (Just hope it’s a dry one!)

Potty training is a big step for all children, and simply coming to terms with the fact that they need to piddle in a potty can be overwhelming. They want independence but sometimes this is a step too far for our little treasures, so be as patient as you can be.

5. Swat up and choose your equipment wisely

Make sure you are confident enough to give a lecture on potty training before you start teaching your child.

You’re not likely to know every little thing that could be thrown at you but having the solution to most scenarios will make for a calmer mummy. This is essential for your toddler to feel comfortable with this life-changing event!

It’s also a great to idea to bring your child with you when you choose the potty so they feel involved from the get-go.

6. Accidents will happen

Even though you’ll run from one end of your place to the next with a potty in hand, saying things like, "Do you need the potty now?" or "Are you sure you don’t need a pee-pee?" there are still going to be a few accidents here and there.

Make light of these and don’t stress – it’s all a learning curve for everyone.

7. Nappies at night

Treat day and night differently. Your toddler might be potty trained in the day but will probably need to stay in diapers during the night for a little while longer.

In the meantime, you can buy training pants-style diapers so they don’t feel like they have taken a step backwards.

8. Be consistent

Try and work out a schedule that best fits with your family, so you can give your little one time without a diaper on when there isn’t likely to be too many interruptions.

Give potty training your sole focus at this time so you can spot the signs that show that your child needs to go and work with him to understand the concept of a potty.

When your toddler is more confident with it all, you could buy a mobile potty that folds away in the diaper bag for when you take a trip out. This way you can be ready and waiting when he needs to go, and not have to worry about where the nearest toilet is.

9. Motivate, reward and make it fun

Kids love to get rewards and this can be a real winner when training them to use the potty.

Make a sticker chart with them and let them put a different sticker for each time they go for a "pee-pee" or "poo-poo" in the potty! At the end of the week you can total all the stickers and reward your kids with their favourite sweets or a toy.

Make sure you praise your kids-in-training as much as possible too, so they feel proud with their achievements. You can also get your toddler a doll and mini-potty so they can ‘train’ her at the same time, making the process a fun game for all involved!

10. Keep it simple

Don’t overdo it. You want to make sure your toddler feels at ease with the whole process.

Never force them onto the potty if they are upset about going on it. Their confidence will build in time and soon you will wonder what all the fuss was about!

Written by

Nancy Emery

Potty trainingPottypotty training tipstoddler milestonestraining baby to use a toilet