Potty Training Readiness
It is recommended by the experts that you should only start potty training when both you and your child are ready. Starting too soon could result in frustration, resistance and a process that takes much longer to complete. But how will you know when your child is developmentally ready?
Is your child ready?
Although it is not necessary for your toddler to display all of the following signs of readiness, some of then are absolute must-haves to increase your chances of success. The more signs there are, the speedier the process usually is.
1. Stays dry for at least 2 hours – this is a ‘must-have’ and happens when your tot has a sufficiently large bladder.
2. Does not like wet or dirty diapers – this is a ‘must-have. A toddler that is not uncomfortable with wet or dirty diapers is not highly motivated to change is current toileting method.
3. Understands the potty terms – a ‘must-have’. Being able to communicate and understand his need to ‘go’ is an important skill.
4. Likes to please – a ‘must-have’. The ‘terrible-twos’ can play havoc with your attempts to potty train your child. Hold off if you come up again resistance.
5. Imitates and follows simple instructions – a ‘must-have’. If your child refuses to follow simple instructions and is generally incompliant it is best to wait for a month or so.
6. Can walk and run – early attempts to get to the potty will be done is a big hurry. If your tot can run, you are less likely to have accidents and messes to clean up.
7. Asks for diaper changes – this is a great sign that he is very ready.
8. Tries to dress self – being able to dress and undress himself means he can be more independent during training which will increase his self-esteem and confidence.
9. Likes things in their proper place – this is another sign that your child is becoming more independent.
Every child is different and reaches emotional and physical maturity at different ages. In addition, boys tend to mature slightly later than girls.
If your child does not yet show sufficient signs of readiness, there is still groundwork that can be done with and for your toddler. By taking the time to set the scene for success the potty training process will be more stress-free.
Are you ready?
If your expectations are realistic (remember that there will be accidents), and you are able to commit to daily reminding, coaching and helping your child over a period of around 3 months, you are probably ready to embark on the potty training journey with him. Lastly, ensure that you are not in the midst of, or preparing for a major family event before commencing and you will be more able to be consistent and patient.
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If you are looking for easy, inexpensive activity ideas to do with your toddlers and preschoolers, check out my other website Doing Stuff With Kids.
