Take the Toil out of Toilet Training: Five Potty Training Pointers

At last, you thought you were done with diapers. But now, your toddler doesn't want to hear the word "potty," let alone try to use one. What's a parent to do?

First, know that whatever's happening is probably normal. Potty training rarely goes without a hitch. There will be successes and setbacks. As much as you'd like the process to be fast and easy, toilet training may take weeks or even months. In the meantime, here are five ways you can make toilet training less stressful for both of you.

1. Don't push if your child's not ready
   If your child doesn't seem ready for toilet training, don't force it. This may be hard if you feel pressure from other family members or child-care providers. Your child should be both physically and emotionally ready for the task. That means being able to:
• Verbally express when a diaper is wet or dirty
• Pull down his or her own pants
• Get on and off a child-size potty chair

Talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about your toddler's development.

2. Understand your child might be hesitant
   Learning how to use the toilet is likely the first time your child has been given real control over a task. Your child may feel anxious, confused, angry or afraid about this new responsibility. Be sensitive to these emotions and don't get upset. Kids will respond more positively to affection and support.



3. Lower your expectations
   Many parents think their children will quickly learn to use the toilet. That might happen if children are over two years old and show a lot of interest in the potty before training starts. If you start toilet training at a younger age, the odds are that the process will go slower. Try not to get frustrated if it takes your child longer than you think it should.



4. Make the potty-and potty time-special
   Want to make your child feel more positive about toilet training overall? Let your toddler help pick out the potty at the store and even decorate it with paint or stickers. Encourage him or her to sit on it frequently; offer praise even if "potty doesn't happen."



5. Stay positive and patient
   The process of toilet training can be just as emotional for parents as it is for kids. It takes a lot of time and energy and you may find yourself cleaning up more messes than ever. Keep in mind that relapses are normal and part of the process; they tend to occur when a child is stressed, tired or just distracted. When there is an accident, help clean up and simply suggest that your child try again next time.

Potty training can be frustrating, but try not to take it out on your child. If there's an accident, be sympathetic. Tell your child you understand that he or she wanted to use the potty. In time, your toddler will make the switch from diapers to big-kid underwear.

Related Articles Good News About Bedwetting Baby Steps and Other Milestones

External Sources American Academy of Pediatrics. Toilet training. Accessed October 1, 2007. American Academy of Family Physicians. When your toddler doesn't want to use the toilet. Accessed October 2, 2007. Blum NJ, Taubman B, Nemeth N. Relationship between age at initiation of toilet training and duration of training: a prospective study. Pediatrics. 2003;111:810-814.

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