Potty training your child is part of the job of being a parent--and it can be trying, particularly if your toddler hasn't yet expressed the willingness or desire. The American Academy of Family Physicians says that there's no specific age at which a toddler is ready to be potty trained, although the majority of children have acquired the basic skill set needed to start between 18 and 30 months. The best ways to potty train your toddler involve preparation, adherence to routine and patience.
Readiness
Before you toilet train your child, look for signs of readiness. The American Academy of Pediatrics cautions you that children under the age of 1 lack control over their own bladder and bowels. But as your toddler grows, he may express distaste at wearing a soiled diaper or even verbally communicate his desire to learn to use the potty. Other signs you may notice are long periods of dryness---at least two hours during the day. He also remains dry after naps and has bowel movements that are predictable. Your child should also be able to comprehend and follow one-part directives (for example, he should understand what "Let's go potty" means). The best way to potty train a child is picking a time when he is agreeable to the process--he should not express fear, apprehension or disinterest. If he does, wait another month and try again.
Gear
Equipping your toddler with the right potty training equipment is essential. You can select a child-sized potty chair or adapt the adult toilet for her use with a step-stool. Whichever route you choose, your child should be able to place her feet flush against the floor or the top of the stool to achieve stability. Select a few of your toddler's favorite toys or books to use during "training" sessions. The best way to potty train is to make "potty" time a fun, nonthreatening experience for your child, regardless of the outcome, advises the AAP.
Adapt
Let your child get acquainted with the potty chair, says the AAFP. You might let him sit on the chair fully-clothed at first, but if the child exhibits apprehension, wait another month and try again. Once the toddler feels comfortable sitting on the potty clothed, have him sit on it wearing only a shirt. The AAFP also points out that dressing your toddler in clothes that are easy to get out of may be helpful as he gains proficiency in using the toilet.
Routine
Get your toddler in a potty training routine. The AAP advises taking her to the potty chair at certain times, such as upon awakening in the morning or after meals. But any time you notice signs that your child is about to have a bowel movement, such as grunting or squatting, get her to the potty chair. Read to her or engage her in play. Make sure that other caregivers are aware of how you structure your child's routines as well. Not every potty training session will yield results.
Communication
Talking with your toddler about using the potty should involve simple, consistent language to indicate body parts and body functions (such as "pee" or "poop"), says the AAP. These words should be communicated to all other caregivers. Never use words or phrases with your child that infer that toileting is "stinky," "filthy" or "nasty." Keep it positive and praise your toddler for his efforts.
Reward
Commending your toddler for her potty training efforts cannot be underscored enough, but there are other ways to make sure that your child knows that her successes are acknowledged. Toddlers may respond to incentives, says Mayo Clinic experts. Some children may like a chart filled with sticky gold stars, while others appreciate a reward that involves an extra story at bedtime. Experiment and find the right incentive for your toddler.
