There are a lot of tried and true secrets to potty training, the problem is they dont always work with every child. That is because all children are different and respond to potty training in different ways. However, the following secrets to potty training are very successful with most children so consider starting out at this point and then working forward!
Don’t Force the Issue
You may have heard from your mom, an article, or somewhere else that toddlers should be potty trained by age two. This is not the case at all. In fact, there is no definite age for potty training other than the age your child dictates for himself. This usually does occur around age two or three, but sometimes later in boys. It is very important that you do not force the issue and say to your child that he is now going to use the potty. Let your child have control over when he wants to use the potty and the process will be faster and more successful.
Buy a Training Seat or Potty
A great way to motivate your child to consider potty training is to take your toddler to the store and have him pick out a potty. There are potties and seats that are designed with different characters so no matter what your child loves you should find a similarly designed potty. Make a big deal out of the potty and how it is for your child to use for pee and poop whenever he is ready. Having the potty in the bathroom might be a big motivator for your child to try it out.
Dora's combo potty
Talk About Using the Potty
If your child is not already interested in using the potty then talk to him about it. You should discuss this in a matter of fact way and let him know that mommy and daddy use the potty and that he will one day too. Tell him the potty is ready for him whenever he is and leave it at that. Don’t pressure, just let your child know what the potty is, that it is his, and that he can use it whenever he wants.
Big Boy or Girl Underwear
Buying big boy or girl underwear can also be a great experience for your child and a potty training motivator. Take your child to the store, allow him/her to pick out some underwear, and then explain how this underwear does not like pee or poop. Let your child know that when he wears this underwear he should pee or poop in the potty and keep his underwear clean.
Rewards
A reward system also works well for potty training and the reward system you use depends on your child. Consider having some small treats for your child that are only available after he uses the potty. Small toys, mini books, or even stickers can motivate your child to use the potty. You may even need to pick out a big prize your child will receive after he stays dry for a period of time.
There are many potty training secrets. These are just a few of them to help you through the process!
