Changing diapers is something we all have to go through during parenthood. It will take a lot of your time, but it will come to pass. Plus, there is also a time when you will need to start training your kid to use the potty. But when exactly is the best time to do so? Does your child's age come into consideration? Do you need to spend a fortune so your kid has the best potty training? Are there other factors you must check in that list? How about we take a look?
Kicking Things Off
Potty training will help your child develop the skill to use the toilet. It is a crucial part of their growth that they will benefit from as they grow. But as you begin training your toddler, check if they have special needs that demand your utmost attention. The last thing you want is to mess up the entire thing .It also does not matter whether you are teaching a boy or a girl. They only need to learn to control their bladder and bowel movements.
When Should You Begin?
You can start training your child once they become two years old and above. Some parents choose to train when their kids hit their third birthday, but it is actually up to you.
It is also time for you to get your eagle eyes on the ready since you will be on the lookout for several signs showing your kid is ready to hit the toilet. These signs include the following:
- Your child grunts or squats as they prepare to poop.
- They can easily navigate their way to and from the bathroom with ease.
- When your child shows unease or unwillingness to wear diapers.
- Your child has a dry diaper even hours after you put it on.
- If you catch your child wearing underwear.
The Tools
Any training session requires a set of tools and other resources to get the job done. The same goes when teaching your kid how to use the potty. These must-have items will help you at the end of the day.
Potty Chair
The staple of potty training, the potty chair is your benchmark that kicks it off. These are comfortable plastic chairs that come in all sorts of colors, designs, and other features. You will encounter several varieties that boast features, including lids, scent-removing systems, and so on. Your toddler will practice with this miniature version so they can utilize the real thing once the time comes. Potty chairs are ideal since you can carry them anywhere. They are also easy and comfortable to use. But like with most items, a potty chair is never perfect. You will still take some time to clean and dry them out.
Toilet Seat
The next item you will need is a toilet seat or seat reducer. It is a small plastic item that sits on top of the toilet. This tool is a sure hit since it allows kids to be comfortable while resting themselves on the actual thing. In addition, you won't have to spend time cleaning anything, except your child, of course. All you have to do is to press the button and let the toilet do its job.
Step Stool
Don't forget that your young one cannot access the toilet seat without assistance. They will require a stepping platform to get to their destination. The same goes for some potty chairs with elevated platforms. Your child might need to make a step or two before placing themselves comfortably. A step stool also gives your child a sense of balance and safety. You can also use a step stool as a guide for your child to reach and use the faucet once they finish their business.
Training Underpants
Don't be fooled by the term underpants. These items are like the diapers your kids are wearing at the moment. However, the main difference is that they will feel wet when wearing training underpants. This realization allows them to know when they have soiled the underpants unlike with diapers that they can get away with it anytime. The neat thing about training underpants is they keep the contents from leaking out.
But using training underpants is like a double-edged sword. For one point, it will help your kid sail faster and more efficiently through the training process. Or it will cause them to depend on diapers way longer than you might have perceived.
Underwear
Who could forget underwear? You might be thinking twice about making your child wear underwear for potting training. However, doing so benefits them more than you can imagine. For one point, the underwear is comfortable for them. Next, using it allows them to train their bladder control. Underwear for kids comes in all designs and colors. Why not take your child to pick their first set of underwear? The excitement over picking something they can use gives them a head start in the toilet transition.
Cleaning items
Accidents can and will happen during the training. But don't you sweat it one bit! It is okay to have accidents since you have what it takes to clear them out afterward. But doing so means you must have cleaning items, including disposable - or flushable wipes, rags, paper towels, tissue, etc. Make sure your toilet area never runs out of these items.
During The Training
The best thing you can do for your child is to empower them as they begin their potty journey. You can check the following tips that might help you out in the future.
1. Choose a comfortable potty chair. Let's face it: anyone with a toilet business wants to be comfortable doing it. The same aspect goes for your young one. You want them to be at ease as they pee or poop. That is why you must choose a potty chair that lets them be busy while feeling safe and comfy.
2. Keep it going. Once you begin the potty training process, it is wise to keep it alive. Don't opt to stop the training when you are midway. Only do so in the event of an emergency or sudden calamity.
3. Check for hesitation. It is alright once you notice your child does not want to go near the potty chair or toilet seat. Using the toilet is a monumental leap in their young lives. Being hesitant is part of the process. You can still help them out, but you have to limit your actions. Guide your child as they move to the potty and do their business. You can let them stay in charge by dealing with the cleaning later.
4. Set an example. Monkey see monkey do. Your kid will mimic your actions as they see fit. With that in mind, you might want to be the role model for your training child. You can do so by letting them see you use the toilet. Show them the steps one at a time to avoid confusion. Do the same once you wash your hands afterward.
5. Settle with rewards. Rewards are not limited to treats and snacks alone. You can reward your training child by mentioning how proud you are of their achievement. This will boost their morale and confidence in themselves to do the task better the next time. You can still opt for treats and snacks but do so in moderation.
6. Start reducing liquids. You will want to reduce your child's liquid intake especially once the night kicks in. Practicing this step helps build bladder control in your toddler. Once they wake up dry the next morning, they will feel better with themselves.
7. Make the process fun.
###