Is Your Toddler Ready for Potty Training?
Date :
Wednesday, May 25 2011
Source:
Autourina Mains
There is no magical age at which toddlers are ready to potty train because each child develops at his/her own rate. Typically toddlers between the ages of 18-24 months may be ready for potty training. Most parents don’t start potty training till their toddler is 2 ½ year to 3 years old. The primary care provider (parent or childcare provider) will be able to see physical and cognitive signs that the toddler is ready for potty training and they are:
· Urinates large amounts at one time
· Defecates at regular times and the feces is well formed
· Has dry periods of at least 3-4 hours (this shows the bladder muscles are developed and able to hold urine)
· Walks and runs steadily (well muscle development)
· Does not like the feeling of wet or soiled diaper and lets you know
· Is able to pull his/her own pants up and down
· Likes to watch others’ bathroom habits (is showing interest)
· Is able to sit quietly for 3-5 minutes
· Shows signs when having bowel movement (like pushing, grunting, or even telling you)
· Is not resistant to the idea of potty training
· Is able to follow simple direction
· Is able to tell you he/she has to go potty (knows the words)
Of course a toddler does not have to exhibit all these signs in order to be ready for potty training, but this provides a general guideline of what to look for. Make potty training a positive experience and avoid getting angry if there are accidents. Take the toddler out to the store and let him/her pick out the potty chair, a favorite pair of underwear and special stickers. Reward the toddler and show joy when he/she goes in the potty.
I had the cutest little two year old at the Center that had just learned to go in the potty. Every time she went potty, she came out, clapped her hands saying “goo girl”. We all danced and clapped with her. So have fun with your toddler and celebrate this great accomplishment.
Books to read:
Everybody Poops By Taro Gomi.
“Chugga, Chugga, Poooooo, Poooo” The Potty Train By: David Hochman.
Personalized Bye Bye Diapers (Elmo Potty Training Book)
Website to visit:
http://blujay.com/item/Personalized-Bye-Bye-Diapers-Elmo-potty-training-Childrens-Book-TM-2008-Sesame-Workshop-3050000-3502751
This website is where you can purchase the personalized Elmo potty training book.