Potty training often marks a milestone in a child’s life. It also grants freedom from changing diapers to the parents as well. Granted this may be an exiting time for parents, but it is also a phase that will require a lot of hard work, persistence and patience.
Most toddlers will get the hang of it in a few days, but others take longer, even a few months. If you are approaching this milestone in your toddler’s life, there are actual steps you can take to make the process go a bit smoother. Steps that can help reduce the anxiety in both parent and child.
Assess whether your child is ready to take this big step. You can make this distinction by asking yourself if your child can follow instructions well, do they tell you what they want when they need something? Can they talk and sit confidently as opposed to stumbling often? Ask yourself whether you are ready for this challenge as well.
If you are beginning a new phase in your own life, like a new job or weight loss program you may consider postponing your potty training plans. This is because this new phase will take up a lot of your time, energy and patience. When you are distracted, it will only make the process more difficult for you and your toddler.
Make sure you have the right equipment. Investing in special potty equipment for children can help reduce the anxiety they will face. These potty chairs or toilet adapters are easily found, similar to a camerons stovetop smoker. They are both easy and convenient to use.
Let your child get familiar with the potty chair. Encourage them to use the set whenever they need it. Reward them for using the potty with lots of praise. Keep an eye on your child throughout the day in case you notice the signs that your child needs the potty. If you notice these warnings you can calmly and quickly suggest they go to the potty seat. Make sure you stay around with them when they are actually on the seat. This lessens the urge to get up and can give them the time it needs to actually use it.
Potty training a child can often be like learning how to cook with mirin. It takes time for both the parent and child to adapt to this new process. Be patient and handle setbacks gracefully. When you first start this process anticipate setbacks, because they will occur. Clean up messes when they occur patiently and remind the child they are supposed to go to the potty when it is time to go.