POTTY TRAINING
Potty training is a big step for parents and kids alike. The secret to success? Patience. Perhaps, more patience than you ever imagined!
Is it time?
Potty training success hinges on physical and emotional readiness, not a specific age. Many kids show interest in potty training before the age of 2, but others may not be ready until 2 1/2 or even older. If you start potty training too early, it may only take longer.
Is your child ready?
- Does your child seem interested in the ‘potty chair’/ toliet or wearing underwear?
- Can your child understand and follow directions?
- Does your child stay dry for periods of two hours or longer during the day?
- Does your child have fairly predictable bowel movements?
- Does your child tell you through words, facial expressions, or posture when he or she needs to go?
- Is your child uncomfortable in wet or dirty diapers?
What To Do
- A toddler who opposes potty training today may be open to the idea in a few months. When you decide it’s time to begin potty training, set your child up for success. Start by maintaining a sense of humor and a positive attitude.
- Pull out the equipment. Encourage your child to sit on the ‘potty chair’ or toilet.
- Schedule potty breaks. Read a book or give then a special toy to hold while sitting. Praise the child even if it is just for sitting.
- Get there – FAST! When you notice signs that your child may need to use the toilet, respond quickly.
- Consider incentives. Kids respond to stickers or a star chart. Reinforce your child’s effort with verbal praise.
- Be consistent. Make sure that all caretakers follow the routine.
- Ditch diapers. Celebrate the transition by letting them pick out the “Big Kid” underwear.
- Treat mistakes lightly. Accidents are inevitable.
- Know when to call it quits. If your child resists using, the ‘potty chair’ or toilet or isn’t getting the hang of it, take break. Chances are he or she isn’t ready yet. Try again in a few months.
Toilet Training at Generation Next
Toilet training is a partnership between the parents/ guardians, the child and the educators. We encourage children who show an interest in toilet training to use the toilet. Toilet training is done under the educator’s supervision and guidance. All efforts are made to treat the child as an indicidual and to work with his/ her specific needs and abilities. When you and your child are ready to start the process, please bring several changes of clothing. Soiled clothing will be rinsed and placed in a bag for parents to launder. Sorry, no toliet seats may be brought to the center. Small toilets have been installed in our toilet training classroom restrooms.
We look forward to assisting you and your child with this milestone!