• Home
• Cooking
• Crafts
• Parenting
• Fashion
• The Hive
• The Buzz

Parenting

Common Potty Training Questions and Answers

Posted on: 03-21-2008 by chloehalston --
« back to parenting

• Current Rating
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

 

One of the biggest difficulties parents face is potty training. Here are a few simple tips and answers to common potty training questions.

 

When should I start potty training my child?

You can begin potty training anywhere from 18 months to 3 years old. About 2 years old is usually good for most kids.

 

How will I know my child is ready to begin potty training?

There are some telltale signs, which include:

• holding it for at least 2 hours at a time
• bowel movements happening on a fairly regular schedule
• being uncomfortable with dirty diapers and wanting them to be changed
• asking to use the potty chair
• asking to wear regular underwear.

 

How can I help my child want to use the potty?

Making the experience positive and fun for the child is key. Let them decorate the potty chair with stickers from their favorite TV shows or movie characters. When you see them give the signs they have to go, ask them, “Do you want to use the potty like a big boy/girl?” or “Do you want to go on the potty like Mommy/Daddy does?” Emphasizing the kid’s self-esteem through the achievement of being potty trained will help a lot.

 

What should I avoid doing with potty training?

Pressuring the child or punishing them when they go in their diapers is counterproductive and will make the child regress in training. Don’t begin potty training during a stressful time with a lot of change, such as moving to a new home, having a new baby, or during a divorce. Finally, be patient and don’t rush your child. Every kid learns at their own pace and providing positive feedback and encouragement is your best bet for successful potty training.

« back to parenting