Toilet Learning

Learning to use the potty is a big event in the lives of preschool children. Learning is a full-time job for children at this age, and learning to use the potty may not be as important as learning to climb, jump, run, and talk. Children learn this new skill at individual times of readiness. Patience and timing are important keys to success for parents. A calm, easygoing approach with a consistent plan and good communication works best. Remember that toilet training is something you cannot force, or it may become an unnecessary battle for control.

How can I know if my child is ready for toilet training?

There are several different signs that indicate a child is ready to begin toilet training. These include:

• Physical signs: Children can stay dry for several hours, get on and off the potty chair or toilet seat by themselves, and can pull their pants up and down with little help.
• Verbal signs: Children can name different parts of their body and tell parents when they need to use the potty.
• Following directions: Children are able to understand and follow directions.
• Motivation: Children are willing to cooperate in order to reach this big step in their lives.

At what age are most children toilet trained?

Most children are toilet trained between the ages of 2 and 3, although individual children mature at different rates. Girls generally learn toileting a few months earlier than boys.

What are the steps to teaching children to learn toileting?

• Watch for signs of readiness.
• Read books about potty training to help children understand the process.
• Borrow or buy a potty chair, steps, and/or attachment for the toilet. Place the new potty in the bathroom and tell children what it is for.
• Dress children in easy-to-remove pants to make the job easier for them.
• Encourage children to sit on the potty for a few minutes. When they succeed, praise them. If they do not succeed, reassure them: “We’ll try again later. If you have the feeling that you need to go, let me know.”
• Remind children to use the potty on a regular basis such as before and after naps, after dinner, and before bedtime. As children become used to the potty, they will use it on their own and need fewer reminders. This may take only a few days but more likely will take several months.