Pam's Parenting Tip of the Month

"Potty Training Made Easy"

  

Potty training is an important milestone. It can be a source of stress for parents if they begin potty training before their child is ready or if their child is resistant. Here's some information on the do's and don'ts of potty training that will help you set the stage for success.  

  

Most children show signs of readiness between the ages of 18 and 24 months. However, age isn't the only factor. Your child also needs to have the 3 P's.

Physiological Readiness. When your child is dry for longer intervals of time (after a nap) voids larger amounts at a time or when your child tells you they're voiding your child is displaying bladder readiness.

  

Physical Readiness. Your child must be able to walk to and from the bathroom, pull their pants up and down and get on and off the potty independently.

  

Psychological Readiness. If your child isn't bothered by wet or dirty diapers or isn't interested in sitting on the potty you're not going to get very far. Your child must be willing.

If you recognize the 3 P's in your child wait a few weeks to ensure readiness. While you're waiting you can begin to teach the process of potty training by setting the stage. This includes having your child observe others using the toilet, introducing books or videos on the subject, talking about using the potty "soon" and choosing a potty chair. Let your child know that when they're ready they can use the potty. If you notice your child is voiding, remark on it: "Are you peeing?"

 Things to Keep in Mind:

Patience! Patience! Patience! It can take several weeks to months to complete the process of potty training.
 
Two steps forward, one step back. You'll have good days and bad days. There will be accidents.

Know when to back off. Push too hard and your child may push back with more accidents and/or resistance.

December's Parenting Tip of the Month will discuss Managing Potty Training Resistance.