Toddlers develop quickly, reaching many milestones in their young lives. Potty training is a major feat for toddlers and preschool age children. Some children breeze through potty training, while others resist or struggle with the task. Knowing when to start potty training makes a differences in how quickly your child masters the task.
Age
Like so many childhood milestones, there is no perfect age for potty training. Watching for signs of readiness is a more effective indicator than your child's age. According to the University of Michigan Health System, many children between 24 and 27 months are ready to begin potty training. Some children are ready sooner while other need more time. The organization also states that 98 percent of children are potty trained by the time they reach 36 months.
Time Frame
Potty training is an involved process and may take several weeks or months for your child to learn to use the potty. Consistently and reliably using the toilet may take even longer, up to 6 months or longer. According to MayoClinic.com, starting the potty training process before your child is ready may drag it out longer.
Gender Differences
You may hear that gender plays a role in the age that a child is ready for potty training. According to the University of Michigan Health System, boys and girls reach potty training readiness at the same average age, which varies from one child to the next. The average length of time to actually achieve potty training varies between genders. Girls are potty trained on average by the age of 29 months, while boys typically take until about 31 months.
Signs of Readiness
The signs of readiness your child will display are a more reliable way to know when to start potty training. The signs include showing an interest in the potty, regular and predictable bowel movements, discomfort in dirty diapers, pulling his pants up and down, physically indicating a need to use the bathroom and staying dry for a few hours. Cognitive indicators include following simple instructions and being able to ask questions.
Considerations
A child who waits longer to show signs of potty training readiness does not necessarily have a problem. Consulting your child's physician may ease your concern if your child passes 36 months without being ready to start training. Sudden accidents after being previously potty training is another reason to contact your child's doctor.
Night time potty training often comes later than daytime potty training. Children often aren't ready to stay dry at night until the age of 5, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
