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BLOG: Can we ditch the diapers?

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Mother and young son potty training

Question: When can I begin potty training my child? 

Answer: Most parents eagerly anticipate toilet training as a milestone in their child's development, if for no other reason than that it means an end to changing diapers. But few moms and dads are prepared for how long toilet training can take.

Your child must be physically and emotionally ready for toilet training. Most children are ready to start between 22 and 30 months of age, but every child is different. So it's important to watch for signs of readiness, such as stopping an activity for a few seconds or clutching the diaper.

Toilet training usually becomes a long, frustrating process if you start before your child is ready. And you'll have a better chance of success if you understand the important elements of training before starting. Some kids master it within a few days.

Instead of using age as a readiness indicator, ask yourself these seven questions:

  1. Is my child able to follow simple instructions?
  2. Does my child understand words about the toileting process?
  3. Can my child verbally express a need to go?
  4. Can my child control the muscles responsible for going to the bathroom?
  5. Can my child keep a diaper dry for two hours or more, get on a potty, sit on it and then get off a potty?
  6. Can my child pull down diapers, training pants or underwear?
  7. Does my child show an interest in using the potty or wearing underpants?

It’s also important to acknowledge your child’s feelings and anxiety, and to communicate openly about potty training. As parents, we want our children to feel love and support.

If your child has difficulty with potty training or acts up during this time, you may want to take a break from training or follow up with a children’s therapist for help. Or, check out Potty Training Boys Girls or HealthyChildren.org for more advice.

Claudia Morona is a senior therapist with the Infant Mental Health Program at Center for Child Counseling in Palm Beach County.

 

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