Home > 4 Parents > Tips for families > Potty training
Potty training
Some common signs that your child is ready to use the potty:
- Has “dry” periods of at least 3-4 hours
- Can pull his or her pants up and down
- Isn’t resistant to learning to use the toilet
- Can follow simple instructions, such as “go get the block.”
Children know when they are ready to begin using the potty. We as their caregivers need to make sure that we aren’t holding them back from “growing up.” Some children will like the consistency of going to the potty and some children will need some interaction such as books, games, sticker boards, etc. to spark their interest in going. Some children are ready to use the potty around the age of 2 ½ to 3 years. Letting children explore underwear and allowing them to it (with accidents occurring) will help them realize that when they feel the urge to go, they need to alert an adult and go to the bathroom. Adults need to praise children and express happiness for them, as this will help motivate children even more to get rid of their diapers. Always remember that children, transitioning to underwear, will have accidents and that’s okay. Never make children feel bad for having an accident. If one occurs, take them to the bathroom and clean them up. Remind them to let you know when they need to go.
