Tips for potty training your little one

Potty training is one of the most crucial stages in a child’s life (Shutterstock)

Parents go through some important milestones as their babies grow up. You’ll be so excited to hear their first words, you’ll be there for their first steps and you’ll take them through their first potty training sessions.

When you start teaching them on how to transition from diapers to the potty, you look back and realize you should be thanking your parents for teaching you how to do something as simple as going to the loo.

There are actual effects of late or poor potty training which include low self-confidence. It’s one of the most crucial stages in a child’s life and you have to be very patient with them.

You can start by introducing the potty early, even when they’re not using it. Show them how to sit on it during play time and get story books and videos on potty training so that they familiarize themselves with it.

• Are they ready to potty train?

Since every child is different, there’s no standard age when children start using the potty. But at least they should be more comfortable with it by the time they’re four years old.

You’ll know they’re ready when they keep the diaper clean longer, they’ll also show signs that they are aware of the difference between peeing and pooping and they’ll be more curious about the ‘big boy/big girl’ bathroom.

If you’re making them use it too early, they’ll resist all your attempts and you’ll be stressed out. If this is the case, don’t force issues and try again after a month or so.

• Get them a good potty

If you can, go for potty shopping with them so they can choose what they’re comfortable with. Find one that’s stable so they won’t fear falling over and one that’s comfortable enough for them.

They’ll be excited to pick their favorite color which encourages them to potty train with confidence.

Effects of late or poor potty training include low self-confidence (Shutterstock)

• Have a potty schedule

Encourage them to use it first thing in the morning and before going to bed as a starting point. This will establish a routine and they can predict what’s expected of them.

• Train with them

No, I’m not talking about getting your own potty here. You should, however, go with them to the loo so you can show them what they need to do.

Some children are eager to have their independence but others are scared to use the potty and this will help them relax more. Show them that’s there’s nothing scary about it.

You should also try coming up with a potty-training song so that they remember the steps you taught them.

• Work on a reward system

Encouraging them through a reward system is one of the best ways to get the results you want. For example, you should let them choose underwear with their favorite cartoon characters drawn on them.

You can also shower them with hugs, stickers or just praise them when they do well. And when they have a few accidents, be more patient with them and avoid bashing them for it.

They need your encouragement most when they make a mistake.