How to Know When It's Time to Start Potty Training

Some children will display signs they are ready to begin potty training around two years of age, while others may be closer to three, according to the Mayo Clinic. Learning to use the toilet is a major milestone in a toddler's development and can be as stressful for both the parents and the toddler. Waiting until your child is ready to start training is integral to your child's success. Patience on the parent's side is also crucial to achieve stress-free training. While there may be no magic age to begin potty training, there are certain signs to look for which indicating your toddler is ready.

Things You'll Need

  • Toddler potty (optional)
  • Notebook

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe your child for independence queues. When attempting potty training there are certain things children must be able to do for himself. Your toddler should be confident when walking, and happily get from one place to another by himself. This will help him when he needs to get to the potty. Being able to undress himself in order to go to the toilet is another plus and will also aid potty training. It is advantageous for him to be able to follow simple instructions and directions.

    • 2

      Watch what your toddler's behavior around same-sex siblings when they go to the toilet. She may be naturally interested in something as simple as underwear - a new concept to her. She will be inquisitive about what her siblings are doing and will attempt to copy them. These are all positive signs. Acknowledge the toilet and the fact everyone uses it. If she avoids the bathroom, or is completely disinterested, she may not be ready.

    • 3

      Purchase a potty and talk to your toddler about what it is and how he is nearly big enough to use one. How he reacts to potty talk will indicate whether he is ready to begin training. If he tries to sit on it, accepts this is where he goes to the toilet, and takes an interest in potty talk these are all good indicators. Children who are not ready will actively avoid all talk about the potty and toilet habits. Some will resist by simply running off when they see the potty or when you begin talking about it. Others may throw a tantrum or become upset if the potty is mentioned.

    • 4

      Make notes and observations about your toddler's soiled diapers and his reaction to them. Ideally, your toddler should be staying dry for periods of three to four hours; this indicates his bladder muscles are mature enough to hold urine, according to Baby Center. He may also be showing signs of discomfort if his diaper is soiled. Some children verbalize that they have soiled it. He may also use certain words to describe when he has urinated or had a bowel movement. These are all signs your child is moving towards potty training readiness. If your child does not acknowledge her dirty diapers, or does not seem to understand her own toilet habits, she probably is not ready.

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