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Most children aren't ready to begin potty training before two years and girls are usually ready earlier than boys. It takes about three months to potty train a child and 98 percent are toilet trained successfully by the time they are three years old.

The right time to start depends far more on individual development than on age. If a child is not developmentally ready, potty training is bound to fail. Toddlers must be able to understand simple one- or two-step instructions, be physically capable of sitting down on the potty and then standing back up again, be able to sit still for a minute or two, and be capable of removing their pants on their own. Your child should be aware of elimination, and this awareness occurs developmentally as follows: he is aware of just having had a bowel movement; he is aware while he’s having one; he is aware that he's about to have one.

Simple steps for success:

• When your child is urinating or having a bowel movement, tell him what he is doing in a matter-of-fact way or by praising him. Never make any negative comments, such as "phew, what a smelly nappy". Always use the same terms, such as "making a wee" or "making a poo".
• Kids are great imitators. Get your child used to the idea of using the toilet by taking him with you when you go. Explain what is happening and demonstrate how flushing works. If you have older children who would enjoy giving such demonstrations, involve them in the training as well.
• Empty the contents of dirty nappies into the toilet and show your child what happens when you flush (unless the flushing sounds frightens him).
• Start training when the child is most co-operative and developmentally ready to be trained.
• Co-ordinate potty training with all other caregivers, such as creche staff and babysitters.
• Purchase a special potty that fits on the regular toilet seat or a separate children's potty if your child is intimidated by the toilet.
• Pull-ups are not necessarily helpful: apart from being expensive, toddlers still associate them with nappies. A disposable nappy worn with undies over it might be a better option. If you prefer pull-ups, use paper ones if your child is used to cotton nappies, and vice versa.
• Don't remind the child too often to use the potty. Your child will only feel pressurised and may become resistant.
• Encourage practice runs to the potty after a nap or a meal.
• Praise your child's efforts and co-operation, whether the attempt was successful or not.

- Ilse Pauw, Health24

February 2006
 

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