Potty Training

How will I know when my child is ready for potty training?

The age at which a child becomes ready for potty training is highly individual. NOBODY can give a specific month or time when a child will be ready. If the demands are too early or too strong, the child will react negatively to the whole experience. He or she may feel helpless, inadequate and frustrated. Usually, a child will display a natural interest in using the potty at about two years of age. He/she will also give you some physical clues/symptoms that will tell you that his/her body is developed and ready:

1. The child’s diaper will be dry for long periods. This means that the bladder is filling and emptying. Prior to this developmental milestone, the bladder empties as soon as urine becomes present.

2. The child’s diaper will be dry when he awakens.

3. The child will tell you when he/she is wet. This means that the child is beginning to understand when urination has occurred. The sensation must be recognized before it can be controlled.

4. The child will ask to be changed. Once a child experiences periods of dryness, quite frankly, he learns to prefer this. This fact can be used to enhance the potty-training process.

5. The child will seek a private place to have bowel movement. He is identifying urges prior to elimination A GOOD SIGN!

At this point, the process should be introduced in a casual manner.

What should parents do to get ready?

First, talk with your child’s teacher about signs of readiness that have been observed at home. Be aware that the first signs of readiness may occur at LeafSpring School, where they are observing other children in the potty-training process.

• Invest in some books about going potty for your child (there are several good ones in the bookstores). Books are a great way for a child to visualize what he/she needs to do and encourage further exploration.

• Provide a child sized toilet several weeks to months before he/she tries to use it properly. Your son or daughter should have time to get comfortable with this new object and display a natural interest.

• Remember to get down on the child’s eye level when the child is sitting on this special seat. Talk to your child and describe everything that is happening and what will occur next.

• Be sure to regularly share any progress with the teacher in your child’s classroom so we can support your efforts.

When do I start?

When parents wish to begin training their child, it is suggested that they pick a weekend that will be relaxed and spent close to home. To get off to a good start, it is important to create a calm and consistent environment. Flexibility and the ability to meet the child’s toileting demands as soon as possible is particularly important.