Potty training a toddler can be a frustrating event if the child isn't ready. However, once the task has been accomplished and the child is able to successfully use the toilet, he is generally very proud of his success. Some children learn very quickly, while others need more time. The most valuable tool in teaching a toddler to use the toilet is patience.
Step 1
Look for signs that the child is ready to start using the toilet, such as if he's uncomfortable in a soiled diaper. He needs to be developmentally and emotionally ready so that he doesn't feel additional stress about attempting something so advanced.
Step 2
Show the child his child-sized potty and explain what it's for. Let him know that it is just his size. If he exhibits fear, assure him that he won't fall into it.
Step 3
Establish a routine for the child to use his potty. A good time for this is after breakfast or any other time he's likely to have a bowel movement.
Step 4
If possible, allow the child to be with you when you use the bathroom. The ideal situation is for a boy to be with his father and a girl to be with her mother.
Step 5
Talk about using the toilet and make it a positive thing. Explain what he needs to do in the toilet.
Step 6
When he soils his diaper, let him watch you empty the contents of the diaper into the toilet. Allow him to sit on the potty afterward and gently but firmly confirm what the potty is for.
Step 7
Encourage him to let you know when he has the urge to go. Stop all activity and lead him to the toilet so he can sit on it.
Step 8
Praise him when he has success using the toilet. Once he has had some success, give him some training pants or pull-on disposable underwear. Put them on him at a time of day when he is most likely to go to the potty.
Step 9
Tell him that he has "graduated" to big boy underpants after he successfully masters using the potty and he uses it consistently. Let him know that he is now a big boy and continue to praise him for such a big accomplishment.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't attempt potty training if something major is happening in the child's life. Keep the child in training pants or disposable pull-up underwear at night, until there are at least five nights of staying dry and unsoiled.
- There will be accidents, so don't become upset.
Things You'll Need
- Child-sized toilet
- Potty training books
- Training pants or pull-on disposable underwear
- Big boy or big girl underpants
