Potty training usually takes place around the age of 2 1/2. Some children are not ready to begin until they are older, however. Before attempting to potty train your child, assess whether he seems ready to begin potty training. Signs that your child is ready include interest in the potty chair, staying dry for two or more hours at a time, discomfort with a wet or dirty diaper and the ability to tell you that his diaper is wet or soiled. Also, determine whether it is a good time to begin toilet training your child. Right before or after moving, the birth of a sibling or starting daycare are stressful times, and not the best times for potty training.
Step 1
Take your child into the bathroom with you when you use the toilet, so that she feels comfortable in the bathroom. Let her flush the toilet if she is not afraid. If she is afraid, wait until she leaves the room to flush.
Step 2
Set up a potty seat in the bathroom for your child. Let him sit on it with his clothes on if he prefers. Show him what it is for by emptying his dirty diaper into the potty seat. Then show him how you will empty the potty seat into the toilet, flush and wash your hands.
Step 3
Put your child on the potty chair several times a day. Praise her for sitting, even if she does not actually produce anything.
Step 4
Watch for your child's cues that he needs to use the bathroom. If he gets a certain look, hides in a certain corner or begins squirming around, quickly get him to his potty chair. Praise him when he successfully uses the potty. Reward him with a sticker or other small treat.
Step 5
Teach your child good bathroom hygiene. Teach your daughter to always wipe from front to back to avoid infection. Teach all children to flush the toilet and to wash their hands properly after using the potty.
Step 6
Stop using diapers. Once your child is consistently asking to use the potty, buy him some big kid underwear, and stop putting him in diapers during the day. Be prepared for accidents by always having a change of clothing handy.
Tips and Warnings
- Be consistent when potty training your child. If you leave her with a babysitter, explain the toileting routine to the sitter. Never shame, berate or punish your child for having an accident. Treat them matter of factly, and assure your child that soon he will always make it to the potty in time. Allow him to help with cleanup, and assist him in putting on fresh clothing.
Things You'll Need
- Potty seat
