Best Tips To Start Potty Training For Toddler Success
Starting on the potty training journey with your toddler is one of those milestones that’s equal parts exciting and terrifying. Almost like your first time riding a bike without training wheels, only now you're the one doing the coaching!
As a fellow mom who's been through this, I totally get the mix of emotions that come with it.
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There’s excitement, a bit of dread, and maybe even a sprinkle of confusion (Did I miss the potty training manual?). I was lucky enough to have a sister with six kids, two of whom are the same age as my little one. So, I had some guidance. Even though I'm older, she's the one with all the experience, and let me tell you, that made a world of difference!
Sure, there are plenty of books and videos promising you’ll have your little one diaper-free in X number of days. But let’s be real, every kid is different. What works like a charm for one might not even make a dent with the next… or the next ten, for that matter.Even within the same family, personalities can vary wildly, making it a real adventure.
If you’re anything like I was with my first child, you might feel like you’re venturing into the great unknown. But don’t worry, I’ve learned a thing or two along the way, and I’m here to pass those lessons on to you!
This post is your trusty companion—I’ll guide you through the signs your toddler is ready, share some get-started tips, and toss in a few pearls of wisdom just for you, mom.
Plus, I've packed in loads of resources, from my go-to YouTube videos to an in-depth eBook I created that has everything in one place on potty training that’s filled with even more tips and tricks.
How to Tell if Your Toddler is Ready for Potty Training
Potty training readiness can vary from child to child, but recognizing the signs is the key for a successful and positive experience for both you and your child!
Not sure if your child is ready? For more on how readiness impacts long-term success, check out Why You Should Wait to Potty Train: The Benefits of Patience.
There are a few signs that you can look out for that could indicate your child is ready for this milestone, including:
Physical Indicators:
Increased Awareness: Your child may show signs of increased awareness when they have a wet or soiled diaper. They might touch or pull at their diaper, indicating discomfort.
Regular Bowel Movements: Some children establish a regular pattern for bowel movements, making it easier to predict when they may need to use the potty.
Staying Dry for Longer Periods: If your child's diaper remains dry for extended periods (around two hours or more), it could indicate that their bladder control is improving
Behavioral Indicators:
Expressing Interest: Your child may show curiosity and interest in the potty or imitate others during bathroom routines. They might follow you or older siblings to the bathroom and ask questions about the process.
Using Words to Express Needs: Verbal communication is an essential indicator of readiness. Your child may start using words or gestures to express when they need to go potty.
Desire for Independence: Toddlers often exhibit a desire for independence. They may express a wish to do things "by themselves," including using the potty.
Emotional Indicators:
Showing Interest in the potty: When your child becomes curious about the bathroom routines and shows interest in using the potty, it's an indication that they might be ready. They may observe family members using the toilet and imitate their actions
Discomfort with dirty diapers: Your child might become more aware of being in a dirty diaper and show signs of discomfort or displeasure.
Interest in big kid underwear: Some children may express a desire to wear "big kid" underwear like their older siblings or peers, signaling their readiness for potty training.
Successfully Tips for Starting Successfully
When it’s time to actually start the potty training process, you might be wondering HOW to even do it! And that’s a totally normal feeling.
Parenting doesn’t exactly come with an instruction manual, so here are a few tips that I found to be helpful:
Create a Toddler-Friendly Potty Environment 🚽
Bathrooms aren’t exactly designed to fit the needs of a toddler, so it’s important that when you’re potty training, you take this into consideration and create a toddler-friendly potty environment just for them.
A few ways you can do this include: purchasing a colorful and inviting potty chair or toilet seat cover that's just their size, keep a stash of their favorite books or toys nearby to make potty time more engaging, and of course have a system in place to celebrate their wins!
Celebrate Small Wins 🎉
Speaking of wins, it’s important to remember that every step your child takes toward successful potty training deserves celebration. Whether it's the first time they sit on the potty, successfully use it, or pull down their own pants, make sure to celebrate and encourage them on their efforts!
These little celebrations can make your child feel excited about this big milestone, sparking even more motivation to keep going. Something as simple as a sticker chart or a special treat for each milestone can work wonders!
Establish a Routine ⏰
Toddlers crave a sense of predictability and an established routine helps provide that. During potty training, it can be very helpful to set regular intervals for potty breaks, especially after meals and before bedtime, so that your child develops this as a habit.
Before you know it, this routine will help them tune into their body’s cues like a pro!
In addition to this routine, teach and encourage your child to express when they need to use the potty, so that they don’t feel alone during the process. Let them know that you are on their team and want them to win, so that they feel confident to tell you when they feel a potty signal.
Why Patience is Key to Successful Potty Training
Patience is the cornerstone of successful potty training. It not only helps you navigate setbacks with grace but also sets the stage for your toddler’s confidence and independence.
Want to know more about how patience can make all the difference? Head to Why You Should Wait to Potty Train: The Benefits of Patience.
Remember that your child is learning something totally new, so try to avoid scolding or making your child feel ashamed. Accidents are part of the learning process and they will pass!
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How To Achieve Potty Training Success
Overall, potty training is a significant developmental milestone that requires patience, understanding, and a healthy dose of encouragement.
From mom to mom, I want to let you know that YOU’VE GOT THIS!
Simply remember that every child is unique, and their journey through potty training will reflect that. Stay positive, celebrate the small wins, and create an environment of comfort and support.
If you’re in search of more help for how to achieve full potty training success, I’ve got just the thing!
My Ultimate Potty Training Toolkit specifically designed to make this milestone a breeze for both you and your toddler.
Easy-to-use Potty Training Toolkit, which includes:
Tips, strategies, and resources for potty training
Printable Potty Tracker For Toddlers
Potty training preparation guide
How to overcome common setbacks
Potty training supply checklist
Digital Daily potty tracker
And MUCH more!
As a busy mom, I understand the challenges that come with potty training and that’s the very reason I created this comprehensive guide.
