Potty training your child is never "easy," but you can make it a lot easier by planning ahead.
Step 1
Talk with your child's pediatrician and read one or more parent resource books. There are many ways to potty train and this will help you better understand your options. I would start with the American Academy of Pediatrics guide to toilet training [2]by Mark L. Wolraich.
Step 2
Understandably, parents want their children to complete this milestone as soon as possible. That being said, children will be more likely to succeed if they are in a nurturing and responsive environment. It is better to wait if your child is going through stressful situation i.e. moving, parental divorce, travel, illness, etc...
Step 3
Before you consider potty training your child you will need to assess their readiness. I would recommend taking The Potty Training Readiness Quiz [3], by Elizabeth Pantley from the South Carolina Department of Education.
Step 4
Acknowledge that caregivers, teachers, nannies, grandparents, and school administrators have a significant influence in your child's life. Continued communication that is open and accessible should be the foundation of each relationship. For that reason, you will need to schedule a time to meet with others before you begin potty training. Consequently, your child’s developmental and emotional needs will be better supported when everyone is working towards a common goal, and is consistent with their choices.
Step 5
Books are a great way to begin a conversation with your child about potty training. So, read, read, read! Remember, you are your child's most important teacher and what you say does matter.
Step 6
When everyone is on board (including your child) choose a date to begin. Start the process when you can stay at home a few days and focus your efforts.
If possible, avoid using pull-ups. It has been my experience that forgoing the convenience is far worth the trouble. Children who feel the comfortand dryness of a pull-up do not potty train as quickly; for they are not able to feel wet. Thus, it is easier for them to make the appropriate association if you use underwear.
I have worked with young children since 1986, and have helped several families through this process. Therefore, I must add one final bit of advice; never disciplined a child for having accidents. The process may be difficult at times, but always focus on the positive.
Time to Pee! [4] Mo Williems
Danny is done with Diapers: a potty ABC [5] Rebecca O'Connell
The Potty Train [6] David Hochman
Toilet Tales [7] Andrea Wayne
On Your Potty, Little Rabbit [8] Kathleen Amant
Have You Seen My Potty? [9] Mij Kelly
No More Diapers for Ducky [10] Bernette Ford
On Your Potty [11] Virginia Miller
Once Upon a Potty: Boy [12] Alona Frankel
Once Upon a Potty: Girl [13] Alona Frankel
Caillou Potty Time [14] Joceline Sanschagrin
Ruby's Potty [15] Paul & Emma Rogers
Standing Up [16]Marie-Anne Gillet
Potty Animals: what to know when you've gotta go! [17] Hope Vestergaard
- Booklist [18]
- Childrens [19]
- Nonfiction [20]
- Parent Resource [21]
- Potty Training [22]
