Potty training is one of the most challenging times for a parent. It’s a stage in your child’s life where they have to move from being diaper dependent to independent, and it can be hard. Potty training can be a daunting task for any parent, but with the right tips and tricks, it can be a breeze.
In this definitive guide to potty training, we will provide you with all the information you need to get your child potty-trained in no time. From choosing the right potty training method for your child to dealing with accidents, we have got you covered! So read on and get started on the road to potty training success!
Potty types:
When it comes to potty training, there are many options available. It’s important to choose the right type of potty for your child so that they feel comfortable using it. Here are some of the most popular types of potties:
- Toilet potty seats: These potty seats are designed to fit onto a regular toilet seat, making it easy for your child to transition from the potty to the toilet.
- Stand-alone potties: These potties are great for toddlers who are just starting to potty-train. They can be used both indoors and outdoors and are easy to clean.
- Potty chairs: Potty chairs are a good option for toddlers who are afraid of falling off the toilet seat. They are also lower to the ground, making them easier for toddlers to use.
- Travel potties: Travel potties are perfect for on-the-go potty training. They are small and portable, making them easy to take with you when you’re out and about.
Types of Potty Training
They are various types of potty training, and the one you choose will be based on your child’s personality and learning style. Here are some potty training methods:
The ‘stay at home’ method
This is where you dedicate a few days to potty training and don’t leave the house. You can do this over a weekend or when you have a few days off work. The idea is that you’re around to catch your child when they need to go and you can quickly get them to the potty.
This method can work well if you have the time, but it’s not for everyone. If you have a busy household or work long hours, it might not be practical.
The ‘partial day’ method
If you can’t dedicate a whole day or few days to potty training, then you can try the partial day method. This is where you potty train for part of the day and then do other activities in the afternoon or evening.
This method can be good if you’re struggling to find time to potty train. It’s also a good option if your child isn’t ready to potty train full-time.
The ‘gradual’ method
The gradual method is where you potty train a little bit at a time. You might start by using the potty for pooping and then gradually add in peeing. Or you could start with going to the potty every hour and then increase the intervals.
This method can be good if your child isn’t ready to potty train full-time or if you’re struggling to find time to potty train. It’s also a good option if you have a busy household or work long hours.
The ‘child-led’ method
The child-led method is where you let your child decide when they’re ready to start potty training. This might be when they’re showing interest in using the potty or when they’re able to follow simple instructions.
This method can be good if your child is ready to potty train but you’re struggling to find time to potty train. It’s also a good option if you have a busy household or work long hours.
The ‘potty training boot camp’ method
The potty training boot camp method is where you potty train for a short period of time, usually three days. This is an intensive method, and it’s not for everyone. It can be tough on both you and your child, so make sure you’re prepared before you start.
This method can be good if your child is ready to potty train but you’re struggling to find time to potty train. It’s also a good option if you have a busy household or work long hours.
The ‘reward’ method
The reward method is where you give your child a reward when they use the potty. This might be a sticker, treat, or toy. The idea is that they’ll be more likely to use the potty if they know they’ll get a reward.
This method can be good if your child needs extra motivation to use the potty. It’s also a good option if you’re struggling to find time to potty train.
The ‘punishment’ method
The punishment method is where you punish your child when they have an accident. This might be a time-out or taking away a privilege. They’ll be less likely to have an accident if they know they’ll be punished.
This method can be good if your child needs extra motivation to use the potty. It’s also a good option if you’re struggling to find time to potty train.
The ‘naked’ method
The naked method is where you potty-train your child while they’re naked. This might be for a short period, like an hour, or for the whole day. The idea is that they’ll be more likely to use the potty if they don’t have any clothes on.
This method can be good if your child needs extra motivation to use the potty. It’s also a good option if you’re struggling to find time to potty-train.
The ‘bladder training’ method
This is where you work on strengthening your child’s bladder muscles so that they can hold on for longer periods of time. This is often used for children who have daytime wetting accidents or who need to go to the toilet very frequently.
One of the first things you need to do when potty training your child is to choose the right potty training method. There are many methods out there, so it’s important to find one that will work best for your child. Some popular potty training methods include toilet training, Elimination Communication (EC), and diaper-free potty training.
Elimination communication
Elimination communication (EC) is a potty training method where you work with your baby to potty at specific times or in specific places. It’s because babies are born with an instinct to potty, and by working with them, you can help them learn to potty on cue.
How to make potty training fun
Potty training can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your child. Here are a few tips to make potty training fun:
- Use potty training as an opportunity to bond with your child. Take this time to talk, sing, or read together while he or she is on the potty.
- Make it a game. See who can go the longest without having an accident, or have a race to see who can get to the potty first.
- Use rewards. Offer your child stickers, praise, or small treats when he or she uses the potty successfully.
Potty training doesn’t have to be a difficult or stressful experience. By using these tips, you can make potty training fun for both you and your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does potty training take?
This is a question that plagues many parents who are in the potty training trenches. The answer, unfortunately, is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Every child is unique and will potty-train at their own pace. However, there are some general things you can keep in mind when potty training your little one, which has been shared in this guide.
When to start potty training for your toddlers?
There is no one answer to this question, since every child is different. However, potty training usually begins around 18 months old. Start sooner if your child shows interest in using the potty or if you have twins or other children close in age (in which case, potty training may take longer).
What are some signs that my child is ready for potty training?
Here are a few signs your child may be ready for potty training:
- He or she can stay dry for at least two hours at a time.
- He or she is interested in using the potty or toilet.
- He or she can follow simple instructions.
- He or she can communicate his or her needs.
If your child is showing any of these signs, it may be time to start potty training!
What are some potty training challenges I may face?
There are a few potty training challenges you may face, such as
- Accidents: It’s inevitable that accidents will happen during potty training. The important thing is to stay calm and positive when they do occur. Remember that your child is learning and accidents are part of the process.
- Regression: Sometimes, after making progress with potty training, children may regress and start having accidents again. This is normal and usually happens when children are under stress or experiencing a major life change (such as starting daycare or preschool). If this happens, just go back to the basics and potty-train at a slower pace.
- Nighttime accidents: Many children have accidents at night, even after potty training during the day. This is normal and usually happens because the child’s bladder is not fully developed. Nighttime potty training can be a challenge, but there are some things you can do to help, such as using a bed-wetting alarm or making sure your child goes to the bathroom before bedtime.
With these tips in mind, potty training should be a breeze! Good luck!