Potty Training – How to go about it

One thing I’m struggling with at the moment is potty training.  Although Mister B seems to know when he wants to go, he neglects to tell me which can be very frustrating.  Below are some hints and ideas on how to go about it.

The Dreaded Potty

Unfortunately, we all know that potty training isn’t the easiest of steps in a child’s life. We all expect mishaps and mistakes, but what do we do when nothing is working? What do we do when they just don’t want to use the potty?

Praise

A lot of success in potty training comes from positive reinforcement and praise. When someone praises us or acknowledges our accomplishments we strive to do it again or achieve something greater. The same is true with our children, but a nod or simple “well done.” doesn’t quite cut it. A lot of children, while starting to feel more independent and grown up, will strive on the claps and cheers as they use their potty.

The Potty

There are some great products out there to help your child feel triumphant as they tackle the potty and new found independence. Whether you let your child come with you and buy the potty they like the most, or make them ruler of the toilet with a throne potty, it’s a good idea to involve your child in “potty training” before they even start. Remember that you are making a big deal of their achievement and not potty training as a whole. Think about how you give praise too. Is a sweet or chocolate the best reward?

Potty Thrones (as mentioned above) are available from www.bambinodirect.co.uk

Anxiety

Remember that you child may feel really anxious and worried about using the potty. It is best to make light of any accidents and keep them from being a big deal. Just get out the mop or something, clean it up and move on. Accidents will happen and they may come even after a long period of success. Don’t be shocked or disheartened.

Smells and Mess

Imagine you have just been to a public toilet and … lets be blunt – pooped. As you leave someone goes in after you and says. “Phoawrr!” or they start to gag. How would you feel? Obviously it’s not exactly the same for your toddler, but do your best to keep any disgust at bay. Yes it may smell. Yes it may go everywhere. Yes you may get it on your hands. All those things are unpleasant, but just stop and think how your little one may feel.

Age

When should I start? How old should they be? These are commonly asked questions and the answer is simple. 1. Generally children are unable to control bowel movements until 18 months, so before that is somewhat impossible. 2. The majority of children are potty trained between the ages of two and three, but many are not ready until after this. 3. You child has the ultimate deciding factor when it comes to readiness or ‘the right time.’ Don’t rush it or put too much pressure on either of you.

Hand Washing

This is something that is often over looked and of course you need to be careful that they aren’t washing their hands too much, as this can lead to dry skin and irritation. Hand washing is important though and the sooner you help your child get into the routine the better.

Potty training is different for every child and every parent. Don’t compare as this won’t help in the slightest and may just lead to frustration or disappointment. Of course search out help and support if needed, but ignore ages, stages and statistics. Take on the challenge with your little one and accomplish it together at the right time for you.

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