Easy toilet training for toddlers
The Early Childhood Commission says it’s best to begin toilet training between the ages of two and three. Do not start too early, as training can be a nerve wracking experience that the child has to be mature enough to handle.
To potty train your child must be able to walk; tell you when he needs to use the toilet; and have muscle control of body functions like wetting and bowel movements.
Signs to look for include:
* The child pauses and makes sounds and when having a bowel movement.
* The child has regular bowel movements.
* The child stays dry for two hours or more at a time during the day.
* The child wakes up dry from naptime.
* The child complains when wet or dry
* The child tells you he/she needs to go.
* The child can follow ins instructions.
Note: Never punish your child for accidents. Accidents are normal especially when learning something new and different. Praise the child for success and praise him/her even if an accident happens on the way to the potty.
Prepare your child by:
* Letting him/her watch others use the toilet. Explain what the toilet is for.
*Teach toilet and body parts words.
* Teach the child how to dress and undress.
What to do:
* Wait until you have time to focus on training.
* Put a potty chair in the bathroom a few weeks before starting. Show your child the chair and talk about it.
* Put training pants on your child. Explain that he/she can now use the potty.
Staying dry through the night
Note that this takes longer for some children than others. Remember, your child is not wetting the bed on purpose, so do not punish for accidents. Keep a plastic cover under the sheet and stay calm. Do not get upset in front of the child, as he/she may already feel bad about wetting the bed. Say something like, “You will get good at this one day”.
