Toilet training is a momentous step in a child’s development, but it is a step that should not be rushed. While most children are ready to start potty training sometime between their second and third birthdays, your child may show signs of readiness as early as 18 months or as late as 3-1/2 years.
Signs of Readiness
Watch for these signs that your child is ready to start toilet training:
1. Diaper is often dry when you go to change it and may be dry after naps.
2. Bowel movements are regular and occur at the same time every day.
3. Shows interest in the potty and follows you in to watch.
4. Understands toileting language and body parts.
5. Shows awareness of body functions by announcement or behavior.
Ready, Set, Go!
When you start working on toilet training at home, let your child’s Horizon Education toddler care teacher know. Our experienced child care teachers will work with your child while he is at day care to help him develop good toileting habits.
Toilet training can be a frustrating experience for parents anxious to put the diaper days behind them. It is normal for children to have accidents during the training process, and your child will probably be successful during the day for some time before he is reliably dry overnight. To cut down on clean up, our toddler care teachers recommend using pull-ups until your child is consistently dry and ready to move into underpants.
Allowing your child to pick out a package of big boy or big girl panties can be a positive training incentive. For more toilet training tips, talk to your child’s Horizon Education Centers teacher.
