How to Potty Train a 2 Year Old

Many parents look forward to the day their toddler can use the potty independently. Potty training means no more messy diapers to change and a milestone for your 2 year old. Heidi Murkoff, author of "What To Expect: The Toddler Years," suggests looking for signs your toddler is ready to train before proceeding. A toddler who has regular bowel movements, can provide a name -- such as "poo" and "pee" -- for bodily functions, asks to be changed and shows a curiosity regarding the toilet and using it might be ready for potty training.

Things You'll Need

  • Training pants or underwear
  • Potty training seat or insert
  • Food coloring
  • Round oat cereal
  • Stickers
  • Small prizes or snacks

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a time in your 2 year old's life that is free of other distractions or transitions. Potty training your child will be more difficult if you are moving, transitioning from a crib to a bed or expecting a new baby, according to Murkoff. Allow your child to focus on one transition at a time.

    • 2

      Purchase training pants or underwear and a child toilet seat insert or potty. Allow your child to assist you in choosing the items, which makes her feel part of the training process, rather than feeling forced to do so. Pick fun designs or a favorite character to make the training process interesting and engaging.

    • 3

      Schedule regular intervals during the day and night to take your 2 year old to the potty, suggests Murkoff. Take your toddler to the potty, even if he states he does not have to go. Have him sit on the potty for 10 to 15 minutes; take him off the seat if he does not go. Praise him and help him clean himself and fix his clothing after urinating or a bowel movement.

    • 4

      Watch for signs your toddler needs to use the toilet during the day. Ask her, "Do you need to go pee?" or "Do you have to use the potty?" Use the same statement each time to keep the training consistent for your toddler. Take your child to the potty if she indicates a need to go.

    • 5

      Create a chart on which to place stickers each time your toddler successfully uses the potty. A small bag filled with inexpensive toys or snacks can also be used to reward him for each successful potty training attempt. Encourage your toddler throughout the training process, even when he has an accident; potty training is a process, not an overnight occurrence.

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