Potty Training - The Easy Way

by: Tim Neumann

Potty training children is just that—training. Just as each child learns to walk and talk at their own pace, so to do children learn to use the potty. Remember patience and consistency. And never get upset when a child has an accident. Growing up is a strange new experience for them and learning to control their bodies is all part of life. Getting angry when a child has an accident creates more problems than it solves

For some children, it will be like turning on a light switch and they will wake up and never use a diaper again. For others, it may take a month or two for them to fully transition out of diapers. Whatever you do you must be consistent. If you work hard for a week and only see minimal progress, do not give up.

Some of the signs a child may be ready to be potty trained is if they are ale to stay dry for over two hours at a time. If they have regular bowel movements throughout the day. If your child comes up and tells you they need a diaper change.

Using a potty chair or a toilet ring is up to you, but if you find one method is not working as well, don’t be afraid to try the other.

Here are some different methods to try:

The timer method:

Set a kitchen or other timer for 20 minute intervals. Every time the time goes off, take your child to the potty and have them sit there. If they use it, great! If not, that’s fine too. Just set the timer again and keep trying. But be consistent.

The reward method:

Some parent have had success creating a little chart where the child can put stickers on it if they go potty. After a certain number of stickers are put on the chart the child gets a prize

The example method:

Yes, I know it can be a bit embarrassing, but letting the child watch you use the bathroom can be a fantastic way to show them how and encourage them to be a “big kid.”

The book method:

You local library will likely have several books on potty training. Some of these will be written specifically for kids. Check these out and read them to your child several times to help encourage them.

The trial and error method:

Some children just have a harder time than others, so it may take trying several or all the different methods until you find one that works.

Whatever method you try, just remember to make potty training a fun stress-free time for your child.