Tips for Potty Training

Potty training is a significant milestone in a child’s development, but it can feel daunting for parents. With patience and consistency, it can be less stressful for everyone involved.  Listed below are some tips on helping parents who are about to start potty training or are currently potty training their children.

1. Timing: For first-time parents, it can be nerve-wracking trying to potty train, especially if your child is not ready. For parents who have older children, it can be easy to compare and get frustrated when it is not turning out the same. Remember that each child is unique and different, so readiness may vary. To know when your child may be ready for potty training look for signs like staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the toilet, or communicating the need to go. Rushing the process can lead to frustration for both parent and child.

2. Environment: Make potty time fun! Always strive to make this a stress-free environment. Celebrate successes with praise or small rewards. Some examples of rewards are stickers, treats, or a small toy. As your child progresses, rewards could be something larger like trying new underwear that they have picked out or a larger toy. Avoid punishments for accidents, as this causes stress or setbacks. This is a learning process and is something new for your child, so accidents will happen and that's okay!

3. Routine: Consistency builds habits. Encourage regular bathroom breaks to help reinforce what you are teaching them. Ask after meals and before bedtime daily if they need to use the bathroom, this will help form habits and help them understand to communicate to you that they need to go.

4. Equipment: Ensure the potty chair or toilet attachment is child-friendly. As potty training progresses, transitioning to a normal toilet with a stool can help with stability and make them feel secure, boosting their confidence to try on their own.

5. Patience: Potty training takes time, and setbacks are normal. Stay calm and supportive. Encourage your child to keep trying without pressure, reinforcing their progress.

Remember even when potty training gets at its most stressful, you are not alone. Do not be scared to ask for help from others! If you would like to discuss potty training in more detail or your child is having bathroom-related issues, talk to your pediatrician!

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