Many parents get anxious about starting their toddler potty training as soon as possible. After all, the lure of not having to pay for diapers or mess with stinky situations on a daily basis is pretty solid motivation for getting your child to start going on his own. But you should look for some signs before starting your child on a potty training routine.
Maturity Signs
Most kids possess the skills and maturity to start potty training between 24 and 27 months, according to the University of Michigan Health System. But that's just an average range. You'll want to look for other signs that indicate your toddler is ready to take that next big step, such as having a desire for independence and an ability to follow instructions. That doesn't mean your child has to be perfect at doing what you say, but kids should possess at least some ability to do what they're asked before you try to tackle toilet training. The child should have basic motor skills, such as the ability to pull down pants and sit on a small potty alone, before you start.
Regular Bowel Movements
If your toddler's bowel movements have at least some predictability---going when she first gets up in the morning or right before bed, for instance---that may be a sign that she's ready to start potty training. This relative regularity can help you predict when to help your child get to the potty since she doesn't yet have the ability to fully recognize bowel movements as they occur.
Recognizing Oncoming Bowel Movements or Full Bladder
If your child is advanced enough to know when a bowel movement comes before it occurs or to know what it feels like to have a full bladder, you're already ahead of the game and will probably find some success with potty training. Look for signs your toddler makes to indicate he's ready to go to the bathroom, such as stopping an activity suddenly and standing still, grabbing at his diaper or making a funny face.
Discomfort
You child may be ready for potty training is if she expresses discomfort at having a wet or otherwise dirty diaper, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics This physical and emotional reaction can serve as the impetus for beginning a potty training routine. If she doesn't like a dirty diaper, she'll be more likely to want to go on the potty on a regular basis.
