Potty training is a significant milestone in your child’s development, and it’s essential to approach it with patience and understanding. Potty training should be seen as a process rather than an event. Just like learning to walk or talk, using a potty is a skill that requires practice and repetition. ERIC has a fantastic resource, the Let’s Go Potty approach.
Starting Early: The Key to Success
Babies are born ready to learn new skills, and the best way to support them is through consistent practice and repetition. You can start teaching your child to use a potty before they stop using nappies. This early introduction gives them time to practice and become comfortable with the idea, making the transition smoother when the time comes.
Readiness
Many parents wait for signs of readiness before starting potty training. However, many children, especially those with additional needs, will never give clear signs that they are ready. Instead of waiting, you can prepare your child by gradually teaching them the skills they need.
The Best Age for Potty Training
Research suggests that most children are ready to master potty independence around 18 months. The majority of children will be capable of doing most things including wiping by themselves when they start school. For optimal bladder and bowel health, it’s recommended to stop using nappies between 18 and 30 months. Delaying this process can make it more challenging for your child to adapt to life without nappies.
Preparing for Potty Training
Start early and take your time, making it a gradual journey you take together. Eric described this as a ‘potty learning process’ that integrates into your child’s overall learning. Most parents find that beginning potty training when their child can sit up, usually around 6-9 months, is a good time to begin helping their child learn potty skills.
Why ‘Potty Learning’ Works
- No Need to Wait for Readiness: You don’t have to wait until your child can do everything on their own. Start teaching them the skills they need gradually.
- Early Introduction: There’s no need to wait for your child to express a desire to stop wearing nappies. Language development is one of the last communication skills children acquire.
- Skill Development: When you decide to stop using nappies, your child will already have some key skills, making the transition easier.
- Gentle Learning Process: Helping your child learn at their own pace, according to their developmental stage, ensures a smoother and less stressful transition.
Click through and visit the Let’s Go Potty page for the three-step approach that will take you through preparation, practice and stopping using nappies.
Resources
ERIC, The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity, has several fantastic resources.
Let’s Go Potty: Potty Training Approach
Potty Training Problems: Causes and Solutions
Potty Training Children with Additional Needs
Other great resources