Potty Training
By Daisy Perry
Signs of Readiness
- Can pull his pants up and down.
- Dislikes the feeling of wearing a wet or dirty diaper.
- Demonstrates a desire for independence.
- Takes pride in his accomplishments.
- Isn't resistant to learning to use the toilet.
- Is in a generally cooperative stage, not a negative or contrary one.
Optimal Time to Start Potty Training
When your child shows signs of readiness, and not before.
Healthy children aren't physically and emotionally ready to start using a potty until they are between 18 months and three years old. Boys tend to be ready a few months later than girls.
Most parents start the training when their children are between two years and three years old.
Healthy children aren't physically and emotionally ready to start using a potty until they are between 18 months and three years old. Boys tend to be ready a few months later than girls.
Most parents start the training when their children are between two years and three years old.
Muscle Control
Child must have control over body in order to successfully be potty trained.
Muscle control is important because child needs to be able to "hold it it" and know when its time to go. Child will need muscle control over bladder and bowel.
Which comes first? Bladder or Bowel?
First comes bowel regularity often followed by Bowel control. Daytime Bladder control often comes next but for many children this can happen simultaneously, and finally later (often much later), comes nighttime bladder control.
Parental Reasons to Begin Potty Training
- No more diapers!
- Less money spent on wipes and diapers
- Will be easier on mother and child in the long run
- If child is happy, mom is happy.
What Role Does Encouragement Play?
Direction, motivation, and encouragement are key factors when potty training. Parents can encourage their child to be independent and allow their child to master each step at his or her own pace.
Self Dressing
Child must be able to dress and undress ones self in order to be able to use the restroom accident free. If child may be unable to take off pants, he will be unable to use the restroom in time.