Do you have a toddler that you feel may be ready for potty training? If so, you may be wondering if there are effective and ineffective ways to go about this process. Of course, every parent wants the potty training process to go quick and easy, but it’s important to keep in mind that every child is different. That being said, there are a few ways parents can tell if their child may be ready for potty training. And, some toddler potty training tips parents can take advantage of when they begin this exciting new phase.

Signs That Your Toddler is Ready for Potty Training

Because every child is different, there is no one set age that potty training should start. However, there are some signs you can look out for as a parent to help determine if your toddler is ready to start potty training. Some good signs that your child may be ready to start potty training may include:

• Being able to hold urination (not wet diapers) for a total of 2 hours
• Having a potty schedule (urinating or defecating at the same time each day)
• They tell you or show you in some way that they are about to potty
• They can change their own clothes or at least pull their pants up and down

Some Situations That Should Make Parents Reconsider Potty Training

Regardless of if you recognize the signs noted above, there are some specific situations in which parents should reconsider starting the potty training process. Don’t start potty training if:

• You’re planning on moving or have recently moved
• You, your spouse, or your child is dealing with sickness
• You’re planning on traveling for a prolonged amount of time in the near future

How to Get Started With Toddler Potty Training

Each family is going to have their own experience with potty training, so it’s best to figure out what works for you and your child. But, there are a few simple tips every parent of a toddler aged child may find helpful including:

• Keeping a positive mindset even through setbacks.
• Neglect punishing your child for not making it to the toilet.
• Always praise your child for doing the right thing.
• Plan a potty routine and help your toddler to the bathroom at specific times of the day.
• Go over the process of using the bathroom every time you’re with your child working on potty training to instill it in his/her brain.

Some Things to Stay Away From When Starting Potty Training

Of course, you want to give your child the best chance to develop good bathroom behaviors. So, it’s important not to just consider what you should do as a parent, but also what you shouldn’t do while navigating the potty training process. Some things parents may want to steer clear of during potty training may include:

• Don’t yell or punish your child for not using the toilet
• Don’t push your child to use the toilet when they’ve had enough
• Don’t use other children as a comparison for your child’s progress
• Don’t start early if your child isn’t showing the signs listed above

And, always remember that your child is a unique individual, so they’ll learn to use the potty in their own time and at their own pace. So, don’t be discouraged if the potty training process seems to take a while. Or, if your child is struggling with the concept at first. Keep working at it and your child will soon be able to utilize the restroom all by him or herself.

Potty Trained Kids at Ivy Prep Early Learning Academy

Here at our early educational environment, we have programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. So, if your child isn’t potty trained yet, don’t worry! We understand that potty training is a process. And, our trained and professional staff is experienced in helping children of this age learn and grow.

If you’re looking for an early education environment for your toddler, schedule to view one of our New York City locations today!