What is Age for Potty Training?

Time Frame

• Most children are ready to begin potty training sometime between 18 and 24 months old, according to the website Kids Health. This is when children and parents communicate better, so toddlers are able to learn better. It is also early enough so children are potty trained before attending school. Successful potty training usually takes three to six months, according to the University of Michigan Health Center, but children commonly wet at night until they're 5 years old.

Signs

• Instead of judging only by age, parents can watch for indications that toddlers are ready to be potty trained. Signs include following basic instructions, being able to verbalize words and phrases associated with going to the bathroom, keeping a diaper dry for two hours at a time, and showing interest in using the toilet.

Supplies

• A smaller seat can be attached to the regular toilet to prevent your toddler from falling in or a toddler-sized toilet can be brought into the bathroom. A toddler-sized toilet makes it easier for smaller children to go on their own, but it requires a cleaning each time the child uses it. Pull-ups, which are absorbent like diapers but pull up and down like regular underwear, can be used as an alternative to a diaper while a child is potty-training. However, using Pull-ups may prolong training, according to the website Kids Health, because toddlers may think they can use them like diapers. Children may be less likely to have an accident when they're wearing regular underwear because they'll be uncomfortable in wet clothing.

Positive Reinforcement

• Don't scold your child for an accident. Even if you are far along in the potty training process, you should expect for slip ups from time to time. Children may master urinating in the potty before they're ready to make a bowel movement in the toilet. Teaching a child to do both is a continuous process. Positive reinforcement, either verbal or with a small reward like stickers, will encourage your toddler to consistently use the potty.

Patience and Consistency

• Diapers may seem more convenient on long trips or while playing outside, but it's better to stop frequently so your child can use the potty. Be patient and supportive. Consistent potty training will pay off faster than sporadic potty training.