If your preschooler is not yet potty trained, watch for signs that she is physically and emotionally prepared to begin learning. Many preschools expect students to be toilet trained. One benefit of training her after the age of three is that her verbal and motor skills are more fully developed. Once you are both ready to begin, gather the supplies and work together until she has mastered the skill.
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Physical Readiness
Successful toilet training is highly dependent on the readiness of your child. The University of Missouri Extension office suggests watching for certain physical signs. Monitor the regularity of his bowel movements and take note of how long he is staying dry during the day. Staying dry for long periods of time shows he has control over his bowel and urinary habits. Once he is able to help you pull on and off his pants, and has appropriate verbal skills, he may be ready to begin.
Emotional Readiness
A second consideration is her emotional readiness. She may be physically ready, but she will have an easier time making the transition from diapers to underwear if she is emotionally ready. Watch for her to show an interest in using the potty and notice if she begins to seek privacy when soiling her diaper. She may verbalize that her friends are no longer wearing diapers and ask to wear underwear. Once she begins asking you to change her out of a soiled diaper quickly, you know that she is most likely ready to begin.
Equipment Needed
The University of Florida Extension office recommends involving your child when selecting some of the equipment he will use for toilet training. Choose an appropriately sized potty chair or potty seat, a small stool and some fun underwear. Make this a special time between you and your child. Preschoolers are often motivated by rewards. Purchase a supply of stickers and make a chart for him to place the stickers on when he has success. Reward him with a special treat after every 10 stickers. Whether you choose disposable training pants or standard underwear, purchase an adequate quantity.
Preparation
Before beginning the toilet training process, prepare your child by reading her books on the subject and talking about the process. Use a calendar to show her the day you plan to start so she can get excited about the upcoming changes. Encourage her to ask questions to gauge her understanding of the process.
Process
Start the toilet training process on a day when your schedule is open. Allow your child to observe you or an older sibling using the toilet and then sit your preschooler on the potty. Read him a book to encourage him to sit for several minutes. If he does not go, let him get up and play. Set a timer and take him regularly throughout the day. Praise him when he sits on the potty, whether he goes or not. Make the experience positive and do not scold him for accidents.
