It’s toilet training time, every child goes through it and so does every parent. But it doesn’t have to be a time of dread and tears, just prepare yourself for a few puddles and lots of washing and it won’t be long before you’re cheering that little bit of liquid in the potty!
When is the right time to start?
It is really important that your child is ready to give up using nappies. If they are not, the process can become quite stressful for both parent and child. As with all developmental stages it is only when your child is ready that success can be achieved. You may want to consider waiting if you have recently had a new baby, moved house or your child has started going to childcare to avoid any added pressure. If possible, it’s a good idea to start when the weather is warm. This means that your child can wear less clothing than normal and you may want to go nappy-free.In the early days your child may not give you much notice before they are ready to use the potty so summer toilet training makes the process simpler.
Don't try to toilet train by a certain date. Time pressure can cause you and your child unnecessary stress.
If your child is showing two or more of the following signs you may want to start your toilet training journey.
Your toddler can stay
dry for up to two hours or during a nap.
They let you know when they need to go to the toilet.
They imitate your behaviour and follow you to the bathroom.
They’re showing signs of independence by doing things themselves.
They ask to be changed and dislike the feeling of being wet.
Taking the first step
It’s often good to stay at home for the first few days of toilet training, making it much easier to clear up the odd accident. To begin, familiarise your child with their potty, so let them carry it around with them during the day and involve the potty when playing. You could even sit them on the potty fully clothed and let them read a book or play. At first keep the potty within easy reach during your daily activities but once your child gets into the habit of using it, the potty can be left in the bathroom.
Routine is key in this process. Rather than waiting for your child to tell you when they need to go, you could try to sit your toddler on the potty at regular intervals during the day and especially after meal times to get them used to the idea. Ask your child regularly if they would like to use the potty, but take care not to overwhelm with questioning and look for signs in your child’s behaviour that may indicate they need to use the potty.
Be prepared for set backs
Be ready for the odd accident even when you think you have got it mastered. Carry spare clothing with you and always use toilet training undies, especially for long trips when out and about. If you continue to have lots of accidents follow your instincts and be guided by your child. Perhaps take a step back and remember to praise the successes and reassure your child if there are any accidents.
What happens at night?
If your child is toilet training during the day this may not mean they are automatically trained to get through the night. It could take up to two years for your child to stay completely dry at night time. Continue to use nappies to start with and then move to toilet training undies. Pop your child on the potty just before bedtime and as soon as they wake. However, you may want to invest in a waterproof fitted mattress protector to shield their mattress of any accidents.
Making toilet training fun!
A toilet training reward chart is an ideal way to reward your child and help them understand their toilet training journey. Use stickers and place them on the chart or even to decorate their potty after every success. Mimic their favourite toys using the potty to show them how it works and eliminate any fears they may have. Reading a potty related story can also prove successful to get your child engaged. Most importantly relax, stay calm and try to enjoy this new stage with your child. Your child will succeed eventually and those nappy days will soon be just a happy memory!
AWARD-WINNING
TOILET TRAINING ESSENTIALS
When it comes to choosing the right toilet training products for your child, there are a few important features you should be looking for. Ensure that the products are easy to clean as you will be doing a lot of this and be sure that they are sturdy with non-slip surfaces to ensure the ultimate safety for your toddler.
Unlike nappies, toilet training undies can be pulled up and down by your toddler and really do make them feel like a big girl/boy. Reusable toilet training undies will hold small accidents saving outer clothes, socks and shoes from getting wet. But unlike disposable training undies they will not take the moisture away from the skin. Using toilet training undies is a vital part of toilet training as your child will notice the difference between wet and dry.