The days of diapers are numbered! Here’s how you’ll know it’s time for the potty.
Where did time go? It seems like yesterday when your baby wore his first diaper and here you are already thinking about potty training! They really grow up fast, don’t they? Lol. There is no particular age for potty training but there are signs that will let you know your little Prince is ready for the big boy potty.
Some parents start potty training as early as 7 months (once the baby can sit up), while some don’t start potty training until their children are much older between 2 1/2 to 3 years old when daytime bladder control is predictable. It is important to remember that kids are different and will probably be ready at different times.
The checklist below can be used as a guide to measure your toddler’s readiness. Note that starting potty training before the child is ready doesn’t mean you will finish sooner. It’s more likely that the process will just end up taking longer.
Before age 1, kids can barely control their bladder and bowel movements. This means even if a young child is mentally ready for potty training, he lacks the physical control needed.
Here is a checklist that will guide you. Don’t wait till you have checked off all the items on this list. Once you check off a few of them.
Physical signs
- Coordinated enough to walk, and even run, steadily.
- Urinates a fair amount at one time.
- Has regular, well-formed bowel movements at relatively predictable times.
- Has “dry” periods of at least two hours or during naps, which shows that his bladder muscles are developed enough to hold urine.
Behavioral signs
- Can sit down quietly in one position for two to five minutes.
- Can pull his pants up and down.
- Dislikes the feeling of wearing a wet or dirty diaper.
- Shows interest in others’ bathroom habits (wants to watch you go to the bathroom or wear underwear).
- Gives a physical or verbal sign when he’s having a bowel movement such as grunting, squatting, or telling you.
- Demonstrates a desire for independence.
- Takes pride in his accomplishments.
- Isn’t resistant to learning to use the toilet.
- Is in a generally cooperative stage, not a negative or contrary one.
Cognitive signs
- Understands the physical signals that mean he has to go and can tell you before it happens or even hold it until he has time to get to the potty.
- Can follow simple instructions, such as “go get the toy.”
- Understands the value of putting things where they belong.
- Has words for urine and stool.
Do you have more tips? Please share with us!
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Also read: 3 Toddler Snacking Mistakes You Need To Stop
