Toilet training your child is an experience you will never forget. If your toddler is between the ages of 18 months and 3 years old, it may be time to begin the toilet training process. The transition from diapers to underwear does not have to be stressful and anxiety producing. Learn the steps to assess whether your child is developmentally ready to begin toilet training.
Frequency
The first step to assessing your child's readiness for toilet training is to monitor how frequently he is wetting his diapers. Make a chart to help you keep track of his routines for one week and record how long he stays dry at a time. Heidi Murkoff, author of the book, "What to Expect the Toddler Years" suggests, "A toddler who stays dry for an hour or two at a stretch---and occasionally awakes without wetness---is physically ready to take the next step."
Vocabulary And Language
Assessing your child's vocabulary and language in determining her readiness for toilet training. When she is able to communicate in a way that you understand and is able to verbally identify body parts, common household objects and speak in short sentences then she may be ready to begin the toilet training process, according to a publication by Parenting Exchange.
Comprehension
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to assess whether your child is able to comprehend when he is wet or dry. When he expresses displeasure over a dirty diaper or tells you he has had a bowel movement, you know he is developmentally able to distinguish between his diaper being clean or dirty. This ability will help her communicate with you during the potty training process.
Physical Considerations
Assess your child's tendency to show that she is mindful of needing to have a bowel movement or urinate. You may notice that she is jumping or hopping, holding onto his private parts or squatting before she soils his diaper. Observing these behaviors lets you know she is aware of what is happening inside her body and will be able to tell you when she needs to use the toilet. Another assessment tool is noting your child's physical development. If she is able to assist you in pulling up and down her pants and has good control over her motor skills, she is likely ready for toilet training.
Desire to Please
Observe your child to determine whether or not he has a desire to please you. Notice whether he is willing to help you in small tasks around the house or comes when you call him. Dr. Belinda Chou, a board-certified pediatrician, writing for KeepKidsHealthy.com, refers to this willingness as "psychological readiness." This willingness to cooperate is an important milestone for your child to achieve before you begin the potty training process. Potty training is led by you, but the child must be willing to participate for the process to be successful.
References
- Parenting Exchange: Toilet Training: Signs That Indicate
- "What to Expect the Toddler Years"; Heidi Murkoff, Arlene Eisenberg, Sandee Hathaway, B.S.N.
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Toilet-Training
- The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine: PedClerk: Toilet Training
- Keepkidshealthy: Potty Training Readiness
