Tips for potty training your toddler
One of the big milestones in your child’s early development is the transition to using a potty. Potty training may seem like a daunting task but it doesn’t have to be! Knowing when your child is ready to potty train is really important, so we have put together some tips for knowing when they are ready, and how to potty train them. Just remember to be patient, each child is different and develops at their own pace. With that in mind, let’s take a look at Doona’s list of potty-training tips!
When is your baby ready for potty training?
Each child is very different which means each child is ready to potty train at different stages. Here are a few ways to know if your child is ready to start potty training:
Less diaper changing
For the first year and half it will feel like you are changing your child’s nappy every 5 minutes. Around 1.5 years old, you will start to notice that they pee less frequently. When your little one is able to stay dry for more than an hour or two, they are starting to develop bladder control which is a sign that they may be ready to start potty training.
Toilet announcements
When your little one starts announcing that they need to go to the toilet then it is definitely a sign that they are ready for potty training. They may let you know verbally, or with their facial expressions, so you should pay attention.
Dirty nappy complaints
At some point your little one will begin to notice and probably dislike the feeling of a wet or dirty nappy. This is definitely a sign that need to start potty training!
Wanting big kid underwear
If you have older kids then your little one may have seen their big kid underwear. When they begin to notice the difference, or express their interest in ‘big kid’ underwear, then it is probably time to let them try!
How to start potting training your baby
When you feel your toddler is ready, here are some tips to help on how to start potty training:
Push the positive
Demonstrate to your toddler that all parts of toilet training are fun, including wearing underwear, cleaning yourself and using the potty.
Wear the right clothes
Make sure to dress your toddler in the right potty-training clothing — simple and easy to take on and off pants. You can even ask them to practice pulling down their pants.
Show them how
Don’t be shy! Sit right down and show them how you go to the bathroom, they will be more comfortable trying it themselves, and don’t forget — toddlers often learn through mimicry.
Shop smart
Try to find a stable and durable baby potty that will hold them up even if they stand up on it.
Talk them through it
You’ll want to make sure to have positive communication with your little one the entire time they are on the potty. They will feel loved and supported, and that’s always a good thing.
Be patient
Most importantly, remember there is no rush, and they will learn when they are truly ready. Just make sure it is always a happy experience.
How to potty train at night
When it comes to baby potty training, nighttime training can be a bit of a challenge. After all, it’s one thing to coach your little one when they’re awake and alert — it is a little more difficult when they’re asleep! Here are some additional nighttime potty training tips to help them sleep well and stay dry:
Limit their liquids in the evenings
Make sure to stop giving them drinks in the evening. Do this by gradually reducing the amount at dinnertime.
Have them use the potty right before bedtime
You will want to make using the potty apart of their bedtime routine, and remember to be patient.
Accept accidents
No child is perfect, and you will have some accidents. The important thing is to not create any extra stress when these accidents happen.
Praise them
When they do have a dry night, praise them for their success.
In the end, the best strategy is to just be patient with your little one, and enjoy every developmental milestone they reach. Don’t worry, they’ll get to exactly where they need to be, you just need to gently guide them. At Doona, it’s always been our mission to help make parenting simple, with the smartest and most functional baby products around.
Happy potty training!
