Summer potty-training guide
If your child is ready to be potty trained then you’re lucky – you’re hitting the best time of the year to do it in. Assuming your toddler is physically and psychologically ready, summer is the ideal time to begin potty training, because rising temperatures mean that most children wear fewer layers of clothing. This makes it way easier for them to undress themselves to use the potty. Plus, once it’s warm enough you can let your toddler race around with nothing on at all, which will make it even easier for him to use the potty.
That said, you still have to do it in baby steps – it won’t happen overnight. Keep in mind that even getting your toddler to sit on the potty is a huge achievement, let along getting him to do anything in it! And it’s still important that your child is ready – starting too soon doesn’t mean quick success: in fact it often just means the process of potty training lasts longer.
Look out for these signs to tell you your toddler is ready:
- He’s steady on his feet, as this should mean his thigh muscles are strong enough to support his weight as he sits down and pushes up from the potty.
- His diapers /articles/Guide_To_Newborn/22279/Nappies.aspxstay dry for several hours at a time, as this indicates his bladder muscles are able to hold on for longer and that when he does pee he is passing a larger amount of urine less frequently.
- He has bowel movements at fairly predictable times so you will know when is the best time to sit him on the potty.
- He is able to pull his pants up and down.
- He is able to sit still for a few minutes at a time.
- He ‘tells’ you when he needs to go, either verbally or by holding onto his crotch.
- He tells you if his diaper is wet, and seems to dislike the sensation.
- He’s interested in watching you go to the toilet.
Generally, children are ready to learn to use the toilet between the ages of 18 months and two and a half years, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Most children are trained by three years of age. However, this isn’t set in stone and if your child is still in diapers at three, don’t beat yourself up about it – there’s no medical reason why it needs to be done before then.
Toilet training typically takes up to three months, but can take as long as seven months, and mistakes during that time are common. It’s vital that you stay positive with your child and that you take it slow. Remind him to sit on the potty when he gets up and after drinks and meals, but accept that accidents do happen and when they do clean away any mess without telling off or punishing your toddler.
When your toddler is sitting on the potty, read a story to him, or have a special toy he only gets to play with when he’s sitting on it – this will encourage him to stay put! A reward chart is a great way to motivate him towards success, as is modeling using the toilet – so be prepared to have your toddler in the bathroom with you whenever you need to go! Older siblings also can lend a hand in this way.
If the whole process gets too frustrating it may be that you’ve misread your toddler’s signs and he isn’t really ready. If he’s constantly having accidents or getting upset when you suggest he sits on the potty, consider taking a month-long break before starting again.
See also gurgle’s guide to
potty training in colder months.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 07/05/2009
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