On average, most children begin learning to use a potty by around their second birthday, but as with everything in children's development, each child is different so if you are having no joy forcing your toddler will not help.
It is interesting to know that up to the age of 20 months, toddlers bladders empty often, making it difficult for them to master holding on for the loo.
Follow your child's lead - when they are ready to use a potty they will let you know. Don't feel pressured by other mothers who state, "Oh, my daughter was out of nappies by now" or by what your mum did, trust your own instinct.
Sometimes parents find it easier to potty train their children in summer, when toddlers can run around with fewer clothes on. It can take longer for boys to learn, especially as they also have to master weeing while standing up. Most boys learn sitting down first. It is great for a dad to teach his son to stand up when he is ready and you can get a little step to help him reach, but make sure the men teach them to put the seat down afterwards we do not want to breed another generation that fails to use a toilet properly!
Signs that they may be ready to potty train
- do they stay dry for a couple of hours each day
- do they show when a bowel movement is taking place, by squatting or making a grunting sound for example
- are they letting you know when they want to be changed when their nappy dirty
- do they take an interest when you, your partner go to the toilet
If you see any of these signs then talk to them about using the potty and see what their reaction is if it good have a go, if not wait there is no law it is all about the individual child.
Note *There are times when it is better not to start potty training your child as you will be setting them up for failure and you will spend all your time on your hands and knees cleaning your carpet, they are when:
- there is a new baby in the house
- they are being moved from a cot into a bed
- they are starting a new childcare arrangement
- there are family relationship problems
- you are moving house
It is simply not worth wasting your time trying when there is any kind of upheaval it just doesn't work so why put yourselves through it
