Potty-training your little one is challenging, but also a great milestone for your child. It’s the end of the diapers era and that’s going to save a lot of money. However, the potty-training phase is not always easy and sometimes creates a lot of stress for both child and parents. Some children are ready for potty training around their second birthday, while others are not ready until later. Every child is different, and the process can be different for each child. But with the right approach, you can make this process a lot easier.
Pick the right time
Timing is crucial. Your child needs to be ready, so it’s important to recognize the signs that your child is ready for potty training. Signs that your child is ready for this step: the diapers stay dry for longer periods, the diaper is dry after naps, your child indicates that he or she wants to go to the toilet or your child is interested in what you do in the toilet and wants to try it himself or herself.
Make sure to choose a quiet moment, for example, if you have a bit more time to spend on the process. Take into account that circumstances may play a role, such as a move, the arrival of a sibling, or other stressful or busy moments. It is quite common for a child who has already been potty trained to relapse after a major event. And then you have to start all over again!
Make potty training fun
You will discover that if you stress about it, it won’t work. Your child must experience it as a fun and positive process to go through. Pay your child lots of compliments, for both big and certainly also for the small steps in the process. Even just sitting on the potty or the toilet without actually doing any “business” is already very good! Tips to make it a fun process:
Use a reward system
For example, prepare a nice, interesting piece of paper together, then mark squares numbered from 1 to 10 on the picture. Every time your child pees or poops in the potty or on the toilet, he or she may add a sticker on one of the numbers. When all numbers from 1 to 10 are marked with a sticker, you can give your child a (small) reward, like a small toy. You can also reward your child with a sticker or a compliment every time they pee in the potty or on the toilet. Do it mainly together and involve your child in everything you do.
Avoid punishment
Do not punish your child if he or she has an accident. This may lead to fear of or resistance against the potty or toilet.
Buy or borrow books
For example, from the library about potty training and read them to your child. There are even songs specially designed to accompany this process and to make it a fun time for your child.
Be patient
The process of potty training can sometimes be challenging, and your child learns through trial and error. Some children manage their potty training very quickly, others take a little longer. Every child does it at their own pace! Try to stay patient in the process and stay positive! Every child is different, so try not to put pressure on your child. For example, your first-born child may be potty-trained very quickly, while your second child may take a bit longer. It is quite natural for you to compare them and then you may get impatient more readily because it takes longer now. It is essential that you try to remain patient and remember that making mistakes is part of it. Stay calm when an accident occurs and continue to support your child. By remaining patient, you help your child to build trust. You will get there in the end!
Build a routine
A consistent routine can help make potty training predictable and less stressful. Take your child regularly to the toilet and make a habit of going to the toilet at certain times. For example, always go to the toilet before bedtime and always when your child wakes up. It is also important that you let your child choose how he or she wants to do it. Give them the choice to pee in the potty or on the toilet or let them choose the underwear they want to wear. You can also read a book about potty training together. This helps to involve your child in the process and he or she can understand the process more easily.
Potty training during the day but not yet at night
Even if your child uses the potty or toilet during the day, it can sometimes take a while before he or she stays dry at night. Many children develop the ability to control their bladder only later, on average between 3 and 5 years old. Here, too, it is important to remain patient. We have compiled a few tips for you to follow:
- Don’t drink a lot before bedtime
- Let your child pee before bedtime
- If necessary, let your child pee again when you go to bed yourself
- Use a mattress protector against accidents
- Encourage your child to go to the bathroom independently at night
- Stay positive and compliment any attempt to go to the bathroom at night
Can’t get your child to use the toilet at night? There are several ways to help you with this. For example, consider a bedwetting sensor. Consult a doctor if necessary.
Be prepared for accidents
Another extra tip: adapt your child’s clothing to potty training. You are probably used to dressing your child in a romper when he or she is about, but as soon as your kids go to the toilet or sit on the potty by themselves, a romper is no longer so handy. So go for a vest with underpants, for example. In the beginning, your child will still wear a diaper. In this case, choose diaper pants, these are easier to pull down to pee. Do you have a daughter? Then try to avoid dressing your daughter in a dress during this period to prevent the dress from being soiled when your girl sits on the toilet or potty. And last but not least: always take an extra set of clothes with you when you’re out and about! Especially in the beginning, mishaps are bound to occur.
We wish you every success with this fun but challenging period!
