It was a quiet Saturday morning when little Pieter first looked with amazement at the potty that had been sitting in the corner of the bathroom for a few days. For his parents, this was an exciting moment; they were about to take a big step in his young life. Potty training, it may sound like a simple step, but for many parents this is the beginning of training towards potty training. This blog explains what potty training is and when to start it.
What is potty training?
Potty training, also known as potty training, is a process by which a child learns to go to the toilet independently and no longer needs diapers. In many cases, what is called potty training is used. This is training with a potty or a child's toilet seat to make the transition to a regular toilet more accessible. Potty training helps children develop skills needed to go to the toilet independently , this is an important first step for a child to achieve potty training.
When is my child ready for potty training?
No specific age can be attached to potty training; this is different for each child. In general, it can be said that after 18 to 20 months the sensitive period of potty training takes place. But even this is not a fixed fact, there are children who want to start the annoying bedwetting problem earlier but there are also children who do not feel the need to do this yet. It is therefore important to listen carefully to your child.
As long as your child is still scared or has no desire to start potty training, then it is important to respect this. If children have to do something they don't feel like doing, they will resist. This can make learning skills take longer including potty training.
You can tell by a number of signals that your child is ready to start potty training. If you recognize your child in one or more of these signs, you can start potty training.
- Children who are curious about what happens in the restroom, and want to watch and/or ask questions about what happens often show a willingness to learn on their own.
- Your child can self-identify that he or she has a wet diaper by telling you or indicating with movements what is going on.
- Your baby feels that he or she has a full bladder.
- Children who are independent and, for example, dress and undress themselves are often also ready to take the step to potty training.
- Your child has dry diapers for longer periods of time.
- Your child no longer wants to wear diapers, but underwear.
When one or more signals occur and your child wants to start by himself, then you know he or she is ready. So watch and listen carefully to your child.
What do you need for potty training?
Children prefer to urinate sitting down with their feet on the floor. This is also the best position for little boys. This allows your child to sit relaxed without feeling like they have to push. You can also choose to place a seat on top of the toilet seat, though this will be perceived as less comfortable for little ones.
Also, always make sure the potty is in a pleasant place, agree this with your child. This way he or she also has a say in potty training. Put a nice toy, cuddly toy or book next to it to make it as relaxing as possible, it is also very exciting for the child.
In addition to a potty and a positive environment, it is also important to give your child some positive attention. Don't get angry when it doesn't work or when your child pees past the potty. When you get angry with your child, you feel insecure and this has a restraining influence.
How do you start potty training?
First of all, it is important to choose a potty with which your child feels comfortable. When your child is used to the potty, you can start to put your child on the potty regularly. Make sure not to keep your child on the potty too long, 2-3 minutes is often enough. Give your child a nice feeling by reading a book to him or her during these 3 minutes.
There are some guidelines after which it is best to put your child on the potty. Below are some of these set times:
- After waking up, this is often a time when infants need to pee.
- After meals and snacks, digestion can stimulate the bladder and bowels.
- Before bedtime, put your child on the potty before bedtime, both at night and before the afternoon nap.
- At signs of having to pee or poop, watch for signals from your child such as wiggling, becoming quiet or going to a corner. Quickly put your child on the potty if you notice these signs.
It is important to remain flexible and adapt to your child's needs. Some children can stay dry longer and need a potty less often, while others need to go more often. Consistency and patience are key here.
What to do in the event of a relapse?
It is not uncommon for your child to have a relapse; a lot can happen in a short period of time. Because of this, never get angry and show understanding. Make your child feel comfortable and bring back motivation if needed.
Important tips during potty training
- Provide clothes that can be easily taken off so your child can quickly take them off by himself.
- Let your baby drink enough, this will provide more chances to urinate and thus a faster learning curve.
- Not too long on the potty, don't force your child to sit for too long.
- Observation, take your child to the toilet so he or she knows how it works.
- Always remain motivational toward your child.
- Reward your child in between times, this boosts motivation even more to achieve good results faster.
In conclusion, then, potty training is an important step in your child' s potty development. By recognizing the right signals and providing a supportive and encouraging environment, parents can help their children reach this milestone. With the right tools, an encouraging attitude and a good schedule, potty training becomes an educational and fun process for your child. Ultimately, the result is not only a step toward potty training but also independence.
