Little one ready to graduate from nappies? Check out our top potty training tips…
Oh, potty training. Every child needs to go through it eventually, but most parents probably would agree that the process can be a little tricky at times.
If your little one is showing signs of being ready to ditch the nappies, read on for advice on when to start, how to begin the process, overcoming the most common challenges and ways to make the big toilet transition.
When to start potty training
Children usually begin potty training between 18 months and three years old. By the age of three, nine out of 10 children are dry most days. However, every toddler is different, and all have the odd accident – especially when they're excited or upset.
Your toddler will come to potty training in their own time. Most want to be dry and clean for their own sake, and will start to recognise that they need to go to the toilet. They might tell you about it, meaning they're ready to give the potty a go. You might also notice that they have dry nappies for at least an hour or two at a time, or they might start to understand when they have a wet or dirty nappy and ask you to change it.
Logistics also play a part in when you might choose to start. Staying consistent while potty training is key, so try to start when there are minimal disruptions or changes to your family’s schedule.
Preparing for potty training
First things first, get your child used to the idea of using the potty gradually. Leave a potty where your toddler can see it and can get to know what it's for. Encourage them to sit on it and see if they use it. If not, it doesn't matter – it will still help them familiarise themselves with the routine.
Children often learn by example. If your child sees you or an older child using the toilet and then washing their hands, explain what they're doing so they get used to it. Potty training is all about learning – think about it in the same way they’d develop other skills like brushing their teeth or using their own cutlery.
As we’ve said, each child will come to potty training in their own time but making the experience interesting and enjoyable might help. For example, buying them a colourful and cute potty may encourage them to give it a go.
From cute animals to funky colours, take a look at our selection of potties and travel potties:
Planning a shopping trip for their first few pairs of 'big pants' might also amp up the excitement – you may be surprised at how fun they find the experience. This also goes hand in hand with getting them used to what it feels like to not wear a nappy. Try letting them go for short periods without one, though make sure it’s after they’ve done a wee or poo to minimise the opportunity for any accidents.
Whether they’re into ballerinas or firefighters, our collection of children’s briefs and pyjamas are on hand as they get ready to ditch those nappies:
How to begin potty training
Once they’re ready to give the potty a go, keep one in your bathroom and make sitting on the potty part of everyday life for your child. Potty training is all about practice. Encourage them to sit on the potty after meals, and whenever your child knows when they’re going to wee or poo, encourage them to use the potty.
Remember that accidents are part and parcel of potty training. They might miss a few times and that’s okay, it will probably take a while for them to get the hang of it.
Whatever you do, don’t make a big deal of any accidents as this might make them a little anxious to use the potty next time. A little praise goes a long way too, so if they’re successful with their potty exploits, make sure to acknowledge this – without making too much of a fuss.
Easy-on pants or pull-ups can be a handy in between solution when your child first starts learning to use the potty. They’re a step towards normal pants as they don’t soak up wee as well as nappies to help your little one understand the different between feeling wet and dry. You can then encourage your child to keep their training pants dry by using the potty.
Check out our selection of pull-ups and easy-on pants:
No matter how speedy or slowly they take to the potty, it’s important that you don’t compare your little one to anyone else, take it easy and go at your child’s own pace.
Daytime vs. night-time potty training
Don’t try to tackle day and night potting training all at once. It’ll be overwhelming for your little one and cause you a whole lot more washing too!
Start with getting them potty trained during the day first, so keep their nappy on at night until you think they’re ready to go without. If they’re waking up a few mornings in a row with a dry or only slightly damp nappy, it could be time to try.
Once you’re ready for night-time potty training, get them to use the potty just before they go to bed and then make sure it’s nearby in case they need to use it in the night. A waterproof sheet, like the Silentnight Healthy Growth Waterproof Mattress Protector, can be a good idea here, since accidents are pretty much bound to happen as they adjust!
Handling potty training challenges
It’s not happening as quick as you’d like
If potty training is taking a while, it’s normal to feel a little frustrated, but don’t put the pressure on – it’ll happen when your child is ready. Certain factors might be influencing whether they are going or not though, so check whether they’re drinking enough throughout the day or if they might be a little constipated. If you do think your child might be constipated, take them to see a pharmacist or GP who can advise on the best treatment.
Your child doesn’t want to sit on the potty
If your little one isn’t fancying sitting on the potty, try making it fun and interesting. Keep books and toys by the potty to keep them entertained, but there’s no need for them to be on the potty for more than a couple of minutes.
Your child keeps wetting themselves
If your child keeps wetting themselves, you can go down one of two routes. You can either go back to nappies for a while or you can stick out the no nappies situation – just be prepared to change and wash a lot of clothes.
If you do decide to stop for a bit, wait a few weeks before starting again as constant stopping and starting can confuse your child.
Accidents keep happening
Even if your child uses the potty sometimes, accidents are still bound to happen. Accidents can feel frustrating but don’t shame or punish them, or let it get either of you down. Stay positive and keep being patient with your little one.
Don’t pretend that the accidents didn’t happen either. Explain why you want them to use the potty next time and maybe even clean it up together so they’re involved in the process.
Your child is starting school
If they still aren’t dry before starting school, they’re probably just as frustrated as you. Talk to your GP for support and advice, as they may be able to refer you to a clinic for expert help.
Transitioning from potty to toilet
Once your baby has mastered the art of using the potty, it's time to tackle the toilet. It's best to introduce this stage gradually, as it can be daunting.
Potty rings help ease the journey from 'little potty' to 'big potty' and make them feel safer on the toilet.
Check out our top toilet training seat picks:
Potty training can seem a little daunting at first, but stay positive, stay patient, and remember that no matter what their transition from nappies looks like, your little one will get there eventually.
