No More Diapers, Need I Say More?

Before you decide that your child is ready for that wonderful and challenging adventure called “Potty Training”, you may want to consider the following helpful milestones.

• Your toddler should  be able to sit for an extended period of time, at least two to five minutes.
• They need to demonstrate a “Dry Diaper” for at least 2 hours or at naptime, this will show more efficient bladder control.
• Bowels should be well formed and anticipated during a certain time of day. 
• It is also helpful if your toddler can walk or even run in a coordinated manner. 
• Communication is critical in conveying to you, that your toddler needs to “use the potty”.                                                                                                                                                                              

Depending on your toddler’s readiness, you need to determine whether or not it is time to ”Potty Train”.  Remember that children develop the necessary cognitive and physical skills to potty train at different ages.  One child may be ready at 18 months, where as another child is not ready until 3 ½ years old.  Regardless of the starting age, your child will accept the challenge when he is ready.  Beginning the process before they are ready will serve to frustrate you and your child and delay the successful outcome till much later. 

Start the process by developing an understandable, common language between you and your child.  This will be vital for you and your child as you will need to understand your child’s needs quickly.  Set aside a special time to present the NEW chair or NEW Steps that lead to the toilet.  Explain to your child how they are to be used. Give your child the chance to explore this new equipment.

Be positive and excited about this new developmental milestone!  Expect to have good days and bad days.  Keep in mind that your child’s lack of sleep, increased stressors and being too busy while “playing” can hamper her progress.  It is helpful to begin this process, when you can stay home, provide a structured and positive environment for your child to add this new challenge. Set yourself up for success, not failure!

Some children respond to Behavioral Charts. Place a colorful chart above the toilet area, so when they attain success, they place a sticker on the chart.  Other children, boys in particular, enjoy a fun target placed in the water – to aim! Make the experience fun and rewarding, do not engage in negative reinforcement, you may find that this significantly delays the outcome.

The purchase of a Potty Training Book and new “fancy” underwear are usually helpful in encouraging your toddler to master this skill.  Do not be in a hurry; understand that this is a process.  Enjoy the journey, and remember it will eventually lead to NO MORE DIAPERS!