1. When the Time is Right
Both of you have to be ready to begin potty training. If started too soon, you can delay the process and risk intimidating your child. He needs to be emotionally and physically prepared. Around two, possibly sooner, you may start to see signs. Does he show an interest when you or your mate are in the bathroom? If he brings you a clean diaper after he's wet his or had a bowel movement, if he can verbally express to you that he needs to use the bathroom, then start to think about potty training. You are ready when you have the patience and the time to be consistent.
2. Baby Steps
Start out slow and have a potty in a playroom. Set one up in the bathroom if you prefer or one upstairs and downstairs. Let her see the potty chair and get used to it. She can sit on it with her clothes/diaper on or off. Let her come and go as she pleases. When she's ready, sit her on the potty without her diaper. Place her there at regular intervals for short periods of time throughout the day. If she uses the potty, show her how to wipe herself correctly from front to back. Let her accompany you to the bathroom to empty it and she can flush the toilet. Remind her to wash her hands each time after going to the potty.
3. Incentives
Let him see and hear that you are proud of him. The best thing that you can do is praising your child whether he uses the bathroom or not. Commend him for telling you when he has to go potty and for just trying. Some children respond to stickers or a favorite treat. Do something special for him like buying a new toy when he is consistent or going to that play area with the big mouse and fun games.
4. Accidents
Be patient and don't lose your cool when she has an occasional accident. She is learning and we all make mistakes sometimes. When she is ready, switch to disposable underwear or let her wear training pants with the rubber underwear over them. Have her use the bathroom before and after naps, shortly after meals and if she has been drinking often. Frequent accidents may signal a medical problem, so check with her pediatrician if you have questions.
5. Potty Success
Purchase a seat for the toilet along with a step stool for his feet once he is using the potty regularly. Some potty chairs come with a seat that attach to the toilet. Continue to help his success by paying attention to his body language. If he's squirming or putting his hand in front of him, take him to the potty. Taking him is better than asking him if he has to go.
