Potty training is one of those big parenting milestones that can feel equal parts thrilling (goodbye, stinky diaper pail!) and daunting (how exactly do I do this?). But don’t worry, you’re not alone on this journey! Whether you’ve got a curious toddler who’s already showing signs of readiness or a little one who seems completely uninterested, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
We’ll cover everything you need to know to get started with potty training. From understanding when your child is ready to the practical steps for making it happen, we’ve got you covered. We’ll share tips for creating a positive and supportive environment, handling common challenges, and even celebrating those small victories along the way.
Remember, every child is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to potty training. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and confidence you need to help your child succeed at their own pace. So take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee (or something stronger—we don’t judge!), and let’s get ready to ditch those diapers.
What Is the Average Age to Start Potty Training?
Most kiddos start showing signs of readiness for potty training somewhere between 18 to 30 months. But remember, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Some little ones might be eager early birds, while others might take longer. And that’s perfectly okay!
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the average age at which neurotypical kids begin potty training is between 2 and 3 years old. Children with special needs are typically completely potty trained by age 5.
In our experience, potty training is a topic on which well-meaning friends and family members often offer unsolicited opinions. It can be tempting to plan for potty training based on your kiddo’s age, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle. Physical and emotional readiness are the keys to successful potty training.
What Are the Signs Your Child is Ready to Start Potty Training?
Your child might be ready to ditch the diapers if you notice these signs:
- Stays Dry for Longer Periods (2+ Hours): If your toddler can stay dry for a couple of hours at a time, it means their bladder has matured, and they can hold it in for longer stretches.
- Regular Bowel Movements: Predictable poop times are a great sign. If your kiddo’s bowels are on a schedule, it’s easier to anticipate those moments and guide them to the potty.
- Able to Pull Pants Up and Down: It’s easy to forget that toileting involves a series of physical tasks grownups take for granted. If your child can dress themselves, it’s more likely that potty training will be a success.
- Shows Interest in Others’ Bathroom Habits: If your child is suddenly fascinated by what happens in the bathroom (cue the endless questions and door barging), it’s a sign they’re curious and ready to learn.
- Expresses Discomfort with Dirty Diapers: When your kid starts pulling at their diaper, complaining, or outright refusing to sit in a soiled one, it means they’re becoming aware of their bodily functions—and that’s a great indication it’s time for potty training.
- Communicates When They Need to Go: Whether through words, facial expressions, or that unmistakable potty dance—if your toddler can tell you they need to go, they’re ready to start learning how to make it to the potty in time.
What Are the Signs Your Child Is Not Ready to Start Potty Training?
Potty training is a big step, and sometimes, it can feel like everyone’s in a rush to get there. But just like with everything else, kids move at their own pace. Here are some signs that your little one might not be quite ready to start potty training yet:
- Frequent Wet Diapers: If your toddler cannot stay dry for at least an hour, their bladder isn’t quite mature enough for potty training.
- Resistance or Fear of the Potty: If the potty is more of a scary monster than an interesting new challenge, it’s best to wait.
- Overnight Bowel Movements: If your child is still soiling their diaper overnight, hit the pause button on potty training.
- Withholding: If you’ve begun potty training and your little one is withholding pee or poop until the point they’re uncomfortable, they’re not ready to potty train.
How Long Will Potty Training Take?
The million-dollar question: How long will potty training take? The average toddler learns the process in about six months. Girls typically learn faster than boys; firstborns take longer than younger siblings.
And don’t forget, nighttime potty training can take longer than daytime training. Many kids stay dry during the day long before they manage to stay dry at night. It’s normal, as is bed-wetting, and might take several months or even longer to achieve.
How to Start Potty Training
Potty training is an exciting milestone, and a little preparation can make the process less anxiety-inducing for everyone. Here’s how to set the stage for potty training success with a supportive, fun, and stress-free approach.
Choose a Potty Training Method
Several potty training methods exist; some might work better for your family than others. But no matter which method you choose, consistency is critical. Once you’ve found a technique that clicks for both you and your little trainee, stick with it. Changing your approach or flip-flopping on the rules (like taking away diapers and then bringing them back) can confuse your toddler and slow things down.
Potty Chairs vs. Potty Seats
Once you’ve decided that your child is demonstrating most (or all) signs of readiness, it’s time to gather your gear. When choosing a potty, you have two options: A standalone potty chair or a kid-size seat that fits on your regular toilet.
Potty Chairs
Potty chairs are basically toddler-sized mini toilets. They sit right on the ground, making them super easy for your kiddo to use, and their small size may feel less intimidating. They’re lightweight and portable, so you can move them to any room you need.
Pros
- Kid-Friendly Size: Potty chairs are small, portable, and just the right size for your little one. They’re the Goldilocks of potty options.
- Easy Access: Since they’re low to the ground, your child can sit down and get up easy peasy. Being able to put their feet flat on the floor can also help with pooping on the potty.
- Less Intimidating: For some kids, a potty chair is less intimidating than the big, sometimes noisy, adult toilet.
Cons
- Cleaning: Potty chairs need to be emptied and cleaned after each use, which we’re guessing you don’t really have time for.
- Space: They take up extra space in the bathroom, which can be an issue if you’re square-foot challenged.
- Extra Step: Once your kiddo masters their pint-sized potty, they’ll eventually have to transition to the standard toilet. For some toddlers, this is not an easy adjustment.
Potty Seats
Potty seats work like boosters for your regular toilet. Remember, if you choose a potty seat, you’ll also need a step stool. (Your toddler needs a sturdy surface to plant their feet and support proper bowel movements.)
Pros
- Big Kid Feel: Using a potty seat on the regular toilet can make your toddler feel like a big kid, which can be motivating.
- Less Cleaning: There’s no need to empty or clean a separate potty—just flush and go.
- Saves Space: Potty seats are small and don’t take up much space. Some even come with storage hooks, so they’re easy to tuck away.
Cons
- Height: Your child will need a step stool to climb up and reach the toilet, which can be an extra thing to manage.
- Fear Factor: Some kids find the toilet a bit daunting, especially if they’re worried about falling in or are startled by the flush.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Potty Training
Step 1: Let Your Child Sit on the Potty Fully Clothed
Start by making the potty a familiar and non-threatening place, and do your best to exude low-key vibes. Let your kiddo sit on the potty fully clothed to get used to the idea without any pressure. Read a favorite book together or sing a silly song. The goal is to make the potty seem like a normal and fun part of their day.
Step 2: Encourage Sitting on the Potty Without Clothes
Once your toddler is comfortable sitting on the potty with clothes, it’s time to take it up a notch. Encourage them to sit on the potty without a diaper or pants. Make it extra fun by letting them fiddle on your phone or turn it into a game. Remember to keep the mood light and high-five them for trying.
Step 3: Move to Using the Potty for Peeing and Pooping
Now that your child is comfortable sitting on the potty, it’s time to use it for its intended purpose. Encourage them to try peeing and pooping in the potty. You should watch for signs they need to go, like fidgeting or holding their tummy, and gently guide them to the potty. Celebrate every success, no matter how small. A little dance or a fist bump can go a long way!
Step 4: Gradually Transition from the Potty Chair to the Toilet
As your child gets the hang of using the potty chair, you can start transitioning to the big toilet. Use a potty seat that fits on top of the toilet, and make sure they have a step stool to reach it independently. The step stool also helps them plant their feet firmly, essential for feeling secure and for proper bowel movements. Continue to offer lots of praise and encouragement as they make this transition.
Potty Training Tips for Boys
Begin by teaching your little guy to sit down for both peeing and pooping. Sitting first simplifies the process and ensures they’re not trying to master too many skills simultaneously. Sitting helps them focus on what they need to do without worrying about aim or control.
Once your son has the hang of pooping in the potty, you can introduce standing to pee. Learning how to aim properly into the toilet is the name of the game. We’ve found that using Cheerios as targets in the toilet can help. That said, prepare to mop your floor. A lot.
Potty Training Tips for Girls
The most important aspect of potty training for girls is learning to wipe correctly. Girls should always wipe from front to back to avoid bacterial and urinary tract infections. Some kids may take a while to get the hang of it, so you may be on wiping duty until she has the dexterity to do it well by herself.
Stick to the Routine Even When It Gets Challenging
Consistency is critical during potty training. Set regular potty times, like after meals and before bed, and stick to them. Even if progress seems slow, maintaining a routine helps reinforce the habit. Keep encouraging your child and stay positive, even during setbacks.
Potty training is a process, and every child progresses at their own pace. Be patient and avoid showing frustration if things don’t go perfectly. Remember, accidents are part of learning. Consistency and a positive attitude will help your child feel more confident and willing to keep trying.
Don’t Forget to Teach Proper Hygiene!
Help your kiddo develop good bathroom hygiene habits from the get-go. Hand-washing should be a routine part of the process from day one. After each potty visit, whether they went or not, make sure your child washes their hands.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Make it fun by singing a favorite song, like “Happy Birthday” or the “ABC Song,” twice, ensuring the soap has enough time to work its germ-fighting magic.
Potty Training Rewards
Potty training can feel like a big deal—creating a positive environment can make all the difference. Every achievement, even the small ones, deserves praise. Don’t underestimate the power of your words. Simple phrases like “Great job!” or “I’m so proud of you!” can boost your child’s confidence. Even if they don’t quite make it to the potty, praise their effort and encourage them to try again next time.
For some kids, sticker charts and reward systems are seriously motivating (of course, for others—not so much). Here are some tangible rewards your toddler may respond to:
- Stickers
- Goldfish
- Skittles or M&Ms
- Fruit snacks
- Desk pets
Some parents like combining small, individual rewards and one big “fully potty trained” reward to keep their kids motivated. Here’s how to stay organized:
- Make a Chart: Create a chart or calendar with a set number of boxes. These can represent the number of successful potty attempts or days until your child is fully trained.
- Use Stickers: Place a sticker in one of the boxes each time your child successfully uses the potty.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Small rewards for individual successes can include extra playtime, a favorite treat, or a small toy.
- The Big Reward: Once all the boxes are filled with stickers, it’s time for the big reward! Celebrate their achievement with something extra special they’ve been looking forward to.
Accidents will happen, and that’s totally normal. When they do, stay calm and reassure your child that it’s okay. Cleaning up without fuss helps them understand that mistakes are just part of learning. Avoid showing frustration or disappointment—it can create anxiety and slow down progress.
If your kiddo is resistant or having a tough time, it’s okay to take a step back and try again later. Pushing too hard can lead to power struggles and negative associations with the potty. Instead, gently encourage them and celebrate small steps forward. Sometimes, a little break can make a big difference.
Nighttime Potty Training
Nighttime potty training is a whole different ball game from daytime training, but with a little patience and the right approach, your kiddo will get the hang of it. Start by waiting for signs of readiness. One of the biggest indicators is waking up with a dry diaper, showing they’re capable of holding it through the night. If your toddler starts asking to use the toilet at night or wakes up to tell you they need to go, it’s a clear sign they’re ready to try nighttime training.
Once your little one is ready to toss the overnight diaper, a few practical tips can help the transition (and save you loads of laundry):
- Limit Fluids Before Bedtime: Cutting back on drinks in the evening can help prevent nighttime accidents. Encourage your child to have their last big drink of the day with dinner, and just a small sip if they’re thirsty before bed.
- Use Waterproof Mattress Covers: Accidents are going to happen, and that’s okay! Waterproof mattress covers are a lifesaver. They protect the mattress and make clean-up much easier, giving you peace of mind during this transition.
- Keep a Potty Nearby for Nighttime Use: Having a potty close to the bed can make nighttime trips easier for your child. Whether it’s a potty chair in their room or a bathroom nearby with a potty seat, easy access is key. A nightlight can also help them navigate their way without fully waking up.
- Encourage Nighttime Potty Visits: Get into the habit of having your child use the potty right before bed. If they wake up in the middle of the night, gently remind them to try to use the potty.
- Create a Routine: Make nighttime potty visits part of your bedtime routine. Read a favorite story, sing a lullaby, and then make one last trip to the potty before tucking them in. Consistency helps reinforce the habit.
When to Seek Help
Potty training can be a rollercoaster, and sometimes you might need a little extra support. Here’s when to consider seeking help and how to go about it.
No Interest by Age 3 or 4
If your kiddo shows no interest in potty training by age 3 or 4, it might be time to seek some guidance. While every child is different, and some take longer to get interested, it’s important to ensure there are no underlying issues. Lack of interest could be due to physical, developmental, or emotional reasons that a professional can help identify.
Frequent Accidents After a Period of Dryness
If your toddler was doing great and suddenly starts having frequent accidents again, it’s worth paying attention. This regression can be frustrating but is often a signal that something’s up. It could be a sign of stress, a change in routine, or a medical issue. Frequent accidents after a period of dryness can sometimes indicate that your child needs more support or that there might be an underlying problem that needs addressing.
Talk to Your Pediatrician
Your pediatrician is a great resource for advice and support. They’ve seen it all and can provide insights into why your kiddo might be struggling with potty training. They can help rule out any medical issues and give you tailored advice based on your child’s unique needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out—it’s what they’re there for!
Behavioral and Developmental Specialists
If your pediatrician thinks it’s necessary, they might refer you to a specialist. Behavioral and developmental specialists can provide more in-depth support and strategies for potty training. They can work with you and your child to create a plan that addresses any specific challenges you’re facing.
Potty training is a big milestone, and every child gets there at their own pace. Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong—it just means you’re getting the support you and your child need to succeed. Every child has their own timeline, and with the right guidance, you’ll both get through it.
Finding What’s Right for You
Albee Baby is the oldest family-owned specialty baby shop in the US. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with the best assortment of baby products anywhere, at fair prices, always. We’re committed to being an inclusive resource for parents and hope you feel empowered to find the right baby gear for your family. Still have questions? Feel free to contact our baby gear experts at 877.692.5233 or [email protected].