Using a potty is a new skill for your child to learn. It’s best to take it slowly and go at your child’s pace. Most parents start thinking about potty training when their child is between 2 and 2 and a half, but there’s no perfect time. Our Facebook post lists the 5 top signs they might be ready.
Preparation is key!
- Talk about wees and poos! Even letting them come into the toilet with you and watch what you do can really help
- Get them involved, let them pick the potty/toilet seat/step. Let them pick the hand soap they’d like, they more involved they are the better!
- Remember to be consistent; make sitting on the potty part of everyday life
- Keep the potty in the bathroom (upstairs and downstairs)
- Having toys or books to play with can help your child to sit still
- Avoid tight clothes or ones with lots of buttons to make it easier for them
- Buy floor cleaner and washing powder- accidents will happen!
- Stay calm and be patient- children pick up on your emotions.
Let’s get started!
- Encourage your child to sit on the potty after meals
- Use the potty to wee, this will help them build their confidence
- Make sure your child washes their hands
- It’s good to teach girls to wipe from front to back
- Don’t limit their drinks to help them stay dry as it doesn’t work. The bladder needs to be filled and emptied properly to keep it working well
- Accidents; they will not feel anxious or worried if it happens again if you remain calm.
We got this!
- Praise goes a long way! Your child will be delighted when they succeed, so let them know they have done well.
- Avoid using sweets as a reward, try a sticker chart instead
- Don’t be surprised if you get a spell of a few good days and then BANG…just keep trying.
There is more information on the NHS website about:
- Pants and Pull ups
- Night-Time Training
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/potty-training-tips