Troubles with Potty Training - Blog of the children's educational center

Teaching your child how to use the toilet independently and transition away from diapers is a significant milestone. There are numerous skills for them to acquire, with your guidance.

To simplify this process for both of you, adopt our evidence-based 3-step Let’s Go Potty approach.

It commences with preparation for toilet use, followed by practicing toilet skills, leading to eventually stopping diaper use as your child grows more confident.

Take a look at a brief excerpt from our potty training podcast below, or continue reading for more information.

Continue reading for responses to frequently asked questions regarding toilet training, such as:

The optimal age for toilet training and when to initiate
Tips for assisting children with special needs
The necessary equipment
Eliminating nighttime diapers
Common issues and obstacles encountered during potty training

When should you start potty training?

Prior to commencing training, your child should be exposed to numerous opportunities for learning. Babies are innately prepared to acquire new skills with our assistance, and the most effective way for them to do so is through practice and repetition.

Therefore, it is crucial to approach toilet training in a similar manner to how we assist children in developing other skills, such as brushing their teeth or using utensils.

Similar to aiding them in walking and talking, you can introduce your child to using a potty before they completely transition from diapers. This allows them ample time and practice to succeed in being independent from diapers when the time arrives.

View potty training as a progression rather than an isolated event!

Shouldn’t we wait for ‘signs of readiness’?

No! Numerous children, especially those with special needs, may never display signs of readiness for toilet training.

Very few children suddenly express a desire to no longer wear diapers! It is akin to expecting a child to run before they have learned to crawl.

You don’t have to postpone toilet training and wait for readiness indications. Prep your child by teaching them the necessary skills.

What is the best age for potty training?

Most children are prepared to achieve toilet independence and take the lead in many aspects of the process around 18 months of age. The majority of children will be capable of performing most tasks independently, including wiping, by the time they start school.

Studies indicate that it is beneficial for your child’s bladder and bowel health to discontinue diaper use between 18 and 30 months.

The longer you delay, the more challenging it might be for your child to acquire this new skill and accept no longer wearing a diaper.

Step 1: Preparation

Here are some strategies to help your child develop body awareness and prepare for toilet training:

Ensure regular soft bowel movements and address any underlying constipation issues. If you suspect constipation, it is essential to address this before ceasing diaper use.
Encourage adequate intake of water-based beverages in addition to milk. Maintaining a healthy bladder and bowel function will aid in toilet training.
Promptly change wet or soiled diapers or pull-ups to establish the norm of cleanliness and dryness for your child.
Once they are able to stand, change diapers or pull-ups while standing and involve them in the cleanup process, including flushing waste down the toilet. Communicate with them during these tasks to help them understand bodily functions and toilet etiquette.
Intermittent periods without a diaper or pull-up can familiarize your child with being without it. Allow your child to be without a diaper for up to 30 minutes after using the toilet. This will assist them in adapting to being without it, without experiencing accidents.
If you use disposable diapers or pull-ups, insert a washable cloth flannel to create a wet sensation when they urinate. Disposables tend to quickly absorb moisture, making it difficult for your child to sense when they have urinated. Ensure to remove the cloth promptly upon getting wet to prevent diaper rash.

Step 2: Practice

Once your child can sit up securely on their own, they can start using a potty with your aid.

Opportune moments for potty time include:

Shortly after waking up
After meals
Whenever you notice signs that your child needs to go (such as straining for a bowel movement).

After enhancing your child’s body awareness and building their confidence in acquired skills, you can introduce more advanced practices. These include:

Teaching words or gestures to express their needs
Instructing them on pulling down and pulling up their pants
Promoting good personal hygiene: proper wiping techniques, hand washing, and drying

During this training phase, your child can still wear a diaper, but engaging in nappy-free time and potty sessions will enhance their abilities and awareness.

Opt for loose-fitting trousers during these periods instead of underwear to avoid confusion with wearing a diaper.

Why feeling comfortable using the potty or toilet is important

Guiding your child on using a potty and familiarizing them with bodily functions will ease their transition to independence from diapers. It also helps preempt common toilet training challenges in the future.

Discussing bodily functions during diaper changes and demonstrating toilet usage can normalize these activities and reduce fear.

When conversing about urine and feces with your child, maintain a positive tone, avoiding negative terms like “stinky” or “smelly”.

If your child is under the weather or uncooperative, don’t impose stress and take a break from toilet training until both of you are prepared to resume.

Incorporating play, stories, characters, and toys can inspire and educate your child regarding potty use.

Every child progresses at their own pace, so exercise patience and seek advice from your healthcare provider if necessary.

Remind yourself that toilet training is a gradual process and refrain from turning it into a power struggle with your child.

Make toilet training enjoyable by keeping books or toys in the bathroom and implementing a reward system for motivation.

In instances of accidents, maintain a positive attitude and encourage your child to use the potty regularly.

If your child experiences setbacks in potty training, consider emotional or physical factors and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Show support and empathy if your child encounters challenges with toilet training.

For more information on toilet training, contact the children’s continence charity ERIC.

Adhere to these general tips and approaches to facilitate your child’s toilet training journey that suits both of you.

Use microfiber towels and toddler underwear for spills. Keep an adequate supply on hand to absorb accidents. Be prepared for frequent clean-ups. Stock up on these items to avoid daily laundry.
Offer water, juice, or milk to aid in toilet training. Dilute juice with water to encourage consumption. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene.

What kind of potty to use to potty train

Select a potty or step stool that aligns with your requirements. Consider a portable potty for seamless transitioning. Having multiple options available can be beneficial. Factor in a ladder for toddlers to access the toilet.

When choosing a potty for potty training, it’s important to consider the size and comfort level for your child. Some children may prefer a potty seat that fits securely on top of the toilet, while others may feel more comfortable using a standalone potty chair. Make sure to choose a potty that is easy to clean and maintain.

Potty training stage 6 – consistency is key

Consistency is crucial in the success of potty training. Maintain a consistent schedule for bathroom breaks, especially after meals and before bedtime. Encourage your child to use the restroom independently and praise their successes.

Potty training stage 7 – nighttime training

Once your child has mastered daytime potty training, you can begin nighttime training. Limit liquids before bedtime and encourage using the restroom before going to sleep. Consider using waterproof mattress protectors during this transition period.

Dealing with setbacks

It’s normal to experience setbacks during potty training, such as accidents or regressions in progress. Stay patient and supportive during these times, providing encouragement and reassurance to your child. Remember that every child progresses at their own pace.

Celebrate successes

Don’t forget to celebrate your child’s successes during the potty training process. Reward them with praise, stickers, or small treats to reinforce positive behavior. Make potty training a positive and rewarding experience for your child.

Seeking professional help

If you encounter significant difficulties or your child shows persistent resistance to potty training, consider seeking advice from a pediatrician or child behavior specialist. They can provide guidance and support to help overcome any challenges you may face.

By following these additional tips and staying patient and consistent, you can successfully navigate through the various stages of potty training with your child.

How to teach toddlers to poop in the toilet

For many parents, the challenge of getting toddlers to use the toilet can be quite a struggle for various reasons.

Below are two effective methods we used to help our son transition to using the toilet:

1. Froggies in the butt

We playfully called burps “froggies in the throat” and farts “froggies in the butt.” Whenever he passed gas, we would playfully ask if he had a froggy in his butt and encourage him to “push” it out into the toilet.

This approach helped him become more familiar with his body and motivated him to try using the toilet for #2.

2. Yellow pee, brown poop

We celebrated his yellow pee to motivate him to aim for brown poop on top of it.

His first successful attempt was a significant achievement for all of us.

It’s important to be patient and consistent when teaching toddlers to use the toilet. Positive reinforcement, like celebrating successes, can go a long way in encouraging them to continue using the toilet. Remember, every child is different, so find what works best for your little one and stick with it!

Some parents choose to teach their boys to sit while peeing to avoid mess and make it easier to direct their aim into the toilet. Sitting down can also help boys develop better bathroom habits and ensure that they fully empty their bladders. However, some parents prefer to teach their boys to stand while peeing as it is more convenient and allows them to learn how to use the toilet like other males in the household.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to sit or stand while peeing is up to the parents and what they feel is best for their child. It’s important to be patient and consistent when potty training boys, no matter which method you choose.

Potty training at night

We decided not to start potty training at night to maintain his good sleep patterns.

He wears a diaper at night, and we are comfortable with that until he’s ready for nighttime training.

For now, our priority is undisturbed sleep.