How to Support Toddlers During Toilet Training

Toilet training is one of those milestones in your little one's life, but one you may have been dreading. The path to this big event in his development is more than likely to include a few puddles and soiled pants for you to clear up along the way. You won't avoid this, but you can help the process run more smoothly by giving him all the support and encouragement he needs and making sure you set out on this journey at the right time.

Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure she is ready to toilet train. The American Academy of Pediatrics says she should be able to voice her wants and needs verbally and should be physically capable of getting on and off her potty chair. The Mayo Clinic advises that most children are ready between the ages of 2 and 2 ½, but every child is different and signs to look for include showing an interest in the toilet, complaining about a wet diaper and staying dry for longer periods.

    • 2

      Pick a calm time to start. The Healthy Children website points out that changes such as a new baby, house move or illness are not good times to try toilet training.

    • 3

      Get him involved and excited about the process from the beginning by letting him shop with you for a potty and underwear. Make sure he can easily get on and off the potty or toilet seat that you buy.

    • 4

      Allow your toddler to get used to the potty or toilet seat by sitting on it, watching you go to the toilet and maybe sitting her teddy on it. The Mayo Clinic suggests she could even sit on it with her diaper on to begin with, until she feels comfortable with the situation.

    • 5

      Give your toddler the language he needs to tell you when he needs the toilet. Tell him to ask for a "pee" or "poo." Make sure you say these words without any embarrassment, as he may pick up on this.

    • 6

      Don't get cross when your toddler has accidents. On the askdrsears website, Dr. Sears points out that you should expect wet and soiled pants as she learns this new skill, and you should not punish her for this, as this may lead to emotional problems.

    • 7

      Give your child lots of praise when he gets things right. To begin with, this may just be him telling you he needs to go, even if he doesn't get there in time. Sticker reward charts can also help him feel proud of his potty training achievements.

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