It's Potty Time! Toddler Training Tips
Potty training is different for every child. Some kids take to it easily, while others may take a while before they finally feel comfortable enough. Going through potty training can be a scary thought for most parents, whether it is your first rodeo or you’re a seasoned vet. We’re here to tell you: It is not as scary, messy, or horrible as you may be envisioning! If you’re ready to potty train or are looking for some new #2 tips, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover our favorite potty training tips, including how a bubble wand can help get things moving!
When Is It Time to Potty Train?
There is no set age for potty training. Some parents start before their child is two, while others may wait closer to three or older. Girls tend to be ready a little younger than boys, so if your little boy isn’t ready at the same age that your older daughter was, don’t panic.
Signs of readiness are important in order to make it go as smoothly as possible. Some of the things to look out for include:
- Your child shows an interest in learning to use the potty and wants to be more independent. For example, your little one might show interest by asking questions if they see a family member going to the bathroom.
- Your child can understand and verbalize words about using the potty. For example, they might say “my diaper is dirty” or “I need to go pee pee. ” They might even tell you they need to go potty even if their diaper is already dirty or wet.
- Your child can make the connection between having the urge to pee or poop and going to use the potty.
- Your child can follow simple instructions and likes to copy your behavior, including bathroom habits.
- Your child can keep his diaper dry for at least two hours.
- Your child can get on the potty, stay on the potty long enough to pee or poop, and get off the potty.
- Your child can pull down his own diapers, training pants, or underwear.
[source: Pampers - https://www.pampers.com/en-us/toddler/potty-training/article/when-to-start-potty-training-signs-your-child-is-ready ]
Tips for Potty Training
There are so many different methods of potty training. Deciding what is right for your child and your family takes research and consideration. Don’t expect your child to sit and start using the potty immediately; it takes patience, time, and lots of positive reinforcement.
Some tips to have it go a little easier, no matter what method you choose, include:
| Get them familiar with the potty first. | Whether you are getting your toddler a small training toilet or are using a seat cover on your regular family toilet, allow your child to start getting familiar with it by sitting them on it for a few minutes every day. Depending on what method you use to train, this could mean clothed first, as well. |
| Let them take the lead. | Remember, signs of readiness are super important. If your child does not want to sit on the potty, do not force them. When kids are ready, they are usually more than happy to sit on the potty and keep trying. Keep it all positive and just try again tomorrow. |
| Use lots of praise. | Make sure you give your child plenty of praise whenever they use the toilet. Depending on the potty training method you use, this can also mean small toys or small candies to reward them whenever they complete a potty training milestone. |
| Be patient. | If it’s not going as easily as you had hoped, don’t panic. Maybe your child just needs more time. Try again tomorrow, next week, or even next month if it’s getting too frustrating. |
| Know when to hold off. | If you’re moving, welcoming a new sibling, are about to travel, or graduating to a big kid bed from a crib, give it some time before you start potty training. This will make it a lot less stressful for both you and your kiddo. |
Mostly Trained, But Still Having Trouble with #2?
Kids tend to completely master going #1 first, and going #2 can still be an issue. Whether your child is totally trained and is having a tough #2, or they still need help getting comfortable to go, Innobaby has a great trick to help.
Our Sensory Bubble Play Skin Happy Botanical Bubbles & Blower Set is a toddler-friendly bubble blower that encourages children to do several developmentally beneficial things, including taking deep breaths and relaxing their pelvic floor. Both of these are great for—you guessed it!—going number two.
If your child is having a particularly difficult time passing a stool or if they just need some help feeling comfortable using the toilet, handing them a bubble blower will help do the trick! Not only will they associate the toilet with something fun and enjoyable, like bubbles, but they will also be able to pass their stool and get some great praise!
We know what you’re thinking: Bubbles, indoors?! Yes! The included bubble solution is made from botanical ingredients, free from harsh soaps and detergents. This means that our bubbles pop dry, don’t leave a streaky, soapy, sticky mess, and are perfect for indoor use.
For more parenting tips and tricks, as well as some more great products for your whole family, visit us at Innobaby.com!