Potty training your 2-year-old son takes time and dedication, but the results are worth the effort. Several developmental milestones mark the transition from babyhood to early childhood and potty training is one. According to the University of Michigan, the average age for a child to be ready for potty training is between 18 and 30 months. Girls, on average, are potty trained at 29 months, and boys, by 31 months. When you begin to potty train your son, keep the experience positive.
Evaluation
Step 1
Evaluate your son's physical readiness before you begin the potty training process. According to the Mayo Clinic, he should have periods of time where he stays dry for several hours, be able to pull on and off his pants and have well developed large motor skills.
Step 2
Assess his verbal and emotional readiness before beginning the process. If he is able to communicate with you using words and phrases, verbally identify some of his body parts and follow simple directions, he may be ready. Watch him for signs that he is aware of his bowel habits, such as asking you to change a dirty diaper or hiding when he has a bowel movement. Note whether he has an interest in how the toilet works and whether or not he is afraid when the toilet flushes.
Step 3
Notice if your son is eager to please you and willingly helps when asked to do small tasks. If so, he may be psychologically ready to begin the potty training process.
Process
Step 1
Read books and watch DVDs with your son which show children using the potty. Select books that are appropriate for a 2-year-old, with brightly colored pictures and few words. Purchase a portable potty, a potty seat and a small stool. Take your child shopping and let him pick out fun underwear. Frequently talk to him about the upcoming change.
Step 2
Choose a day when you can stay home most of the day to begin the process. When your son wakes up in the morning, change his pajamas and sit him on the potty. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends you take your son at regular times throughout the day. Set a kitchen timer to remind yourself when to take him potty.
Step 3
Encourage him to sit for a few minutes by looking at books or telling him stories with his toys; when he first begins sitting on the potty he may want to immediately get down. If he does not go within a few minutes, let him get down and try again later.
Step 4
Be positive and encouraging when he sits on the potty, whether he is successful at voiding or not. Do not pressure him to go, as he will potty train when he is ready. According to the University of Chicago, it is wise to be willing to wait a few months if your first attempt is unsuccessful.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a sticker chart to reward him whenever he sits on the potty. Let him watch you or an older sibling use the toilet so he understands what is expected. Put the potty seat in the bathroom a month or two before you plan on starting. Discuss any concerns you have with your pediatrician.
- Never yell or raise your voice to him if he has an accident. Do not toilet train him right before major life changes such as a new baby in the family or an upcoming move.
