A young child is usually ready to begin potty training somewhere between 18 months and 3 years of age. Some eager tykes may be ready a little sooner, others slightly later. As a general rule, girls tend to show an eagerness to begin potty training earlier than boys. Your child will typically reveal a number of signs that he is ready to give up diapers and go to the bathroom like bigger people. Once your child appears ready to make the big leap, there are several things you can do to make the training process go as smoothly as possible.
Psychological Considerations
There are a number of developmental milestones to look for as you consider taking the leap into potty training your child. Before you begin the process, its critical that your little one is aware when he has urinated or had a bowel movement. A toddler who is closing in on the potty training stage will exhibit displeasure when his diaper is dirty and will immediately want it changed.
Bladder Readiness
A young child must be physiologically able to control her bladder and bowel functions, otherwise any attempts at potty training will be for naught. You will know your child is ready to wean off her diapers if she is able to stay dry for a minimum of two hours and her bowel movements are regular.
Timing
If you're convinced your child is ready both physically and psychologically to begin potty training, it's important to evaluate the stability of his environment. For example, you may not want to begin potty training at the same time your child moves from a crib to a bed. If you have recently moved into a new home, give your child time to adjust to his new surroundings before introducing the toilet or potty chair.
Potty Chair
Once it appears evident your child is ready to begin potty training, it's time to introduce your child to the potty chair. Allow her to sit on it while clothed as she becomes comfortable with this new contraption. When your child appears ready to urinate or have a bowel movement, seat her on the potty chair. Little boys may also sit on a potty chair to urinate until they become more confident in a standing position.
Training Pants
When it comes to training pants, one school of thought is that they only serve to prolong the training process. Others maintain they serve to create a smooth transition between diapers and underwear. Some parents use training pants only at night, while others use them during the day as well. A child can typically stop wearing training pants once she stays dry for several days in a row.
Outlook
Potty training requires patience. Your child may have several "dry" days and then seem to regress and have a series of accidents. The potty training process can take as long as three to six months. Some kids will get the hang of it much sooner.
