Training a young child to recognize when he has to go to the bathroom and to use a toilet instead of a diaper is one of the most daunting tasks for a parent. Toilet training is a major transition in a child's life that makes him feel more independent and grown up. Some children potty train quickly and at a young age, while others require extra time and help. Toilet training your child can go smoothly if you understand how your child learns and then choose the most effective training approach.
Pick a Special Potty
Selecting a special potty with your child can make it easier to toilet train her, because she likes the potty and feels ownership. Dr. Bill Sears, pediatrician and professor of Pediatrics at the University of California at Irvine, explains on his website that if you take your child to the store and allow her to pick out a special toilet, she will be more likely to want to use it. It's also helpful to consistently place the training toilet in one spot in your home so the territory becomes familiar to your child. FamilyDoctor.org states that toilet training takes six to eight months on average.
Demonstrate
One of the best ways to help a toddler learn how to use the potty is to demonstrate yourself, according to Dr. Sears. He states that it is normal and healthy for Mom or Dad to use the regular toilet in front of the child to show him how to use his toilet. Buying a special doll and demonstrating how the doll sits on the potty and then flushes it when he is done may also prove helpful. You can even read a child's story book on the subject of toilet training to your toddler each night.
Be Patient
Dr. Sears states that if your child learns to use a toilet later than the other children you know, you do not need to feel ashamed. Patience is the most important trait parents can demonstrate when it comes to toilet training. Remember that toilet training is a big change and a long process for children. According to Dr. Sears, some children take longer than others to develop, and if a child is not physically or mentally ready to toilet train, you can't do much other than to keep trying.
Sing Your Child's Praises
Praise and reward your child for her toilet-training efforts rather than punish her for her failures. Dr. Sears recommends giving your child a sticker each time she uses the potty chair or rewarding her with another special treat whenever you see progress. This system will help keep your child encouraged during the long and difficult task of potty training.
