Potty Training
By: Gabby Whitton P1
Practice Toilet
When beginning to potty train, having a practice toilet will help the child understand the use of an actual toilet. It will help them become accustom to sitting there until they're completely done using the restroom.
Actual Toilet
Next, is the transition to the actual toilet. By using the practice toilet at the beginning to get them use to sitting there, you have set an example for them to follow. Now they know the routine and will go in and get their business done.
Positive Reinforcement
After they completely finish using the restroom, praising your child will encourage them to use the restroom in the toilet rather than in their diaper in the future.
Signs of readiness:
- They can walk and run easily without falling.
- They use the restroom routinely.
- They have "dry" periods.
- They can sit still and quietly foe 2 to 5 minutes.
- They can pull their pants up and down.
- They prefer to be "dry" rather than "wet".
- They want it.
- They give signs when they're beginning to use the restroom.
- They have a desire for independence.
- They take pride in their accomplishments.
- Isn't resistant to learning.
- Is generally cooperative.
- Understands the physical signs and can tell you when they need to go before it happens.
- Can follow simple instructions.
- Understands the concept of putting things where they belong.
- Knows the word for urine and stool.
When is the optimal time?
Typically you should start around the time your child begins to show signs of readiness, which is around 18 to 24 months.
Muscle control - why is this important?
Muscle control is important, because without it you wouldn't be able to properly release the waste from your body.
What role does self-dressing play in this process?
If you can dress yourself and pull your pants up and down it makes going to the restroom an easier and quicker process.
What role does encouragement play?
By encouraging a child to use the restroom you are motivating them to do it again and again.
Which type of training comes first?
Bowel training comes first then typically bladder comes next but these can happen simultaneously, not every child follows this pattern.
Parental reasons for beginning toilet training:
It gives parents more freedom to do the things they want to do without having to check their child's diaper constantly. It helps their child become more independent, therefore giving the parents less to deal with.