How to Potty Train at 12 Months
Potty training is a challenging task for many parents and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting potty training when your child shows signs of readiness, such as staying dry for at least two hours at a time and being able to walk to the bathroom. For some children, this can be as young as 12 months of age. If you think that your 12-month-old is ready for toilet training, there are several techniques that can help you to accomplish this goal.
Things You'll Need
- Child potty
- Wipes
Instructions
Observe your child for his personal cues that indicate he is ready to urinate or have a bowel movement. This can be different for each child, but common signs include becoming very still, turning red in the face or grunting. Prepare an area in the bathroom for the child's potty or install a child-sized insert onto the regular toilet. Show your child the potty and help him to sit on it even before it's time to go. As soon as you observe cues, help your infant to sit on the potty. Show him how to use toilet paper or wipes, even if he can't quite do it himself yet. Explain what is happening when you flush the toilet, and invite your child to help you push the flush handle. Direct your child to use the potty as soon as you observe any cues. Use the same words each time, and keep it simple, since a 12-month-old's vocabulary is limited. You can simply say, "Potty!" as you walk with your child to the restroom. You also can use a simple hand sign, such as tucking your thumb between your index and middle fingers as you make a fist and shake it from side to side (the sign for "potty"). Use the sign each time you say the word. Take your little one to the bathroom at regular intervals whether she is showing cues or not. This helps her to get accustomed to a routine. Use music to reinforce what you are teaching. Music appeals to babies even younger than 12 months. Sing a simple "potty" song each time you go for a regular potty visit, or use a potty song as a celebration after the activity. Make up your own simple potty song by using a familiar melody and replacing the words with simple, potty-related lyrics. Celebrate each time your baby attempts to use the potty. Positive reinforcement is powerful in teaching a child to use the potty. Remain patient. The age of 12 months is very young, and even if your little one shows signs of being ready to learn toilet training, the process may take a while. Each child has his own unique timetable, and it's best if you don't get too anxious about completing the process by a certain date.
