The Unexpected Start to Potty Training
My child, at exactly 24 months and one week old, began potty training without a plan. I had intended to wait a little longer, but a persistent rash and irritation from the diapers forced me to take them off. Just like that, our potty training journey began at the age of two, earlier than I had ever anticipated.
I kept the bottom half of his body bare, except during nap and sleep times. Initially, this led to a few unfortunate incidents of him relieving himself on the floor. I had no choice but to repeatedly explain that he needed to use the toilet. For the first few days, it felt like raising a puppy, as I constantly had to wipe up messes.
Strangely, he mastered bowel movements quite quickly with very few accidents. Urinating, however, was a different story. Then, I tried a new approach: luring him with vitamin candies as a reward. The training progressed smoothly from then on. He would try to urinate just to get a vitamin candy, almost to the point of being a little annoying! He would sit on the potty while watching TV or even eating a snack.
He would attempt to pee up to 20 times a day just to earn a candy. It was endearing to see him constantly checking to see if he needed to go, knowing that a successful pee meant a delicious treat.
Potty Training: When and How to Start
1. When to Start Potty Training
Most children begin potty training between 2 and 4 years of age. Your child, at 24 months (two years old), fits right into this window. You can check for signs of readiness, such as:
- Behavioral readiness: Your child expresses discomfort with a wet or dirty diaper or tries to pull it off.
- Physical readiness: They can pull their pants up and down on their own, and they stay dry for at least two hours at a time.
- Cognitive/Emotional readiness: They understand and can use words like "pee" or "poop" and can follow simple instructions.
2. Tips for Successful Potty Training
Consistency and patience are key.
- Praise and rewards: Generous praise and small rewards like stickers or candies can be a great motivator for a child.
- Establish a routine: Encourage your child to sit on the toilet at regular times, such as first thing in the morning, after naps, or before leaving the house.
- Create a positive environment: Get a toilet seat or potty with their favorite character on it. Reading potty training books together can also create a fun and positive atmosphere.
3. What to Do If Things Aren't Going Well
Potty training is a process of trial and error. Don't rush it.
- When there's an accident: Instead of scolding, calmly say, "It's okay, let's try to use the toilet next time." Shaming can cause stress and make training more difficult.
- When they refuse: If your child cries or resists sitting on the potty, take a break from training for a month or two. Forcing them before they're ready can be counterproductive.
4. The Concern About Starting Late
Some parents worry about starting potty training too late to avoid stressing their child. Forcing training before a child is ready can lead to anxiety, constipation, and even urinary tract infections. Research suggests that waiting until the child is truly ready can make the process faster and easier. Ultimately, the best approach is to follow your child's lead and their unique readiness cues.