Potty training might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be. As with other things, like eating, walking, talking, and making friends, kids do things as per their own timeline, not ours! No matter what, your child will eventually be potty trained. It’s a new skill for them, and it doesn’t have to be hard or stressful.  We just need to be patient. It’s best to take it slowly and go at your child’s pace. Every child is different, so it’s best not to compare your child with others. The secret is to wait for signs that your child is ready for toilet training and then start it.

Here’s some more bottom-line advice on potty training:

Getting started

Take help from older siblings, cousin or friend to demonstrate the joy of using the toilet. Start changing  diaper in the bathroom, and ask for incremental tasks such as pulling down pants, tearing off toilet paper and flushing.  Show happiness and excitement when the kid finally gives it a shot,  even if he doesn’t pee or poop.

Potty Seat

Toilets are big and loud and some kids are scared of them. Get a  potty seat insert (decorated with princess or whatever appeals) available. Use the one which kid prefer, this will make kid look forward to using the toilet.

Prizes and praise:

Create a reward system that motivates the kid and is practical to sustain. Try stickers or check marks every time kid uses toilet but make sure that your reaction should be loud and excited as that is the big motivator.

Timing is Key

Setting a routine for potty can be quite helpful. Typically the time that your child most usually does. Let the kid know in advance that it’s almost potty time, and playtime will continue afterwards.

What to wear

Underwear is best for serious  potty training. For initial period, you may want to use diapers at night. Cinderella or Dora undies are real motivator for some children. You can use training diaper over underwear for long car drives or outings.

Associate diaper to kids

Tell your child that diapers are for really small kids who can’t talk and walk. Big girls and boys do not use diaper. Say bye bye to diapers !