As cute as fluffy bums can be, the thought of your child being done with diapers is usually pretty alluring. Although as most experienced mamas will tell you, potty learning goes much smoother if your child is ready for the process. So rather than relying on a magical age to begin potty training, look for signs of readiness in your child (as opposed for parent/caregiver readiness 😉 )

What exactly are signs of child readiness when it comes to potty learning? Here are 5 main signs:

1. Diaper stays dry for long(er) periods of time – And when they do urinate, it is a lot at once.  This demonstrates your child’s bladder muscles are developed enough to hold urine. I knew my oldest son was ready to be done with diapers when he consistently woke up with a dry diaper each morning.

2. Can follow simple directions – If your child is able to follow simple directions such as “get your shoes” or “put the book away”, he/she demonstrates the necessary cognitive and language skills to begin potty learning.

3. Indicates awareness of wet/dirty diapers – Often kids enter a stage where being in a wet/dirty diaper starts to bother them. They may indicate this by taking their diaper off or requesting a diaper change when their diaper is soiled. Generally this is a good time to start introducing them to the potty. For example when you change them you can sit them on the toilet for a minute or two.

4. Shows interest in other’s use of the bathroom– Children are naturally curious and like to mimic others. When a child starts to show interest in your use of the bathroom or an older sibling’s use of the bathroom, it can be a great time to talk with them about the potty and/or read one of the many available children’s books about using the potty (Once Upon A Potty is a cute one).

5. Starts to show interest in dressing and/or undressing – An awareness and ability to dress/undress is a good indication your child has the desire for more independence in self care routines, including potty learning.

General tips for potty learning:

• If you start potty learning and get to a place of frustration (either you or your child), don’t hesitate to put the process on hold and try again in a month or so.
• Try to introduce potty learning when your child is going through a (generally) cooperative phase
• Try to avoid introducing potty learning during periods of time when they are undergoing big developmental changes in other areas.
• Do not use any type of punishment or consequences for “accidents”.  Keep in mind there is a learning curve to the process which is likely to result in accidents along the way. Treat accidents as no big deal, gently remind your child they can tell you when they have to go potty, and move on. If potty learning becomes a stressful process for the child, it is likely to be prolonged.
• Make it as fun and positive as possible. Show enthusiasm when they use the potty. For example we sign a silly potty song when our child uses the potty during potty learning.

If you are looking for some eco-friendly products to assist with potty learning check out Mom’s Milk Boutique for cloth trainers and a biodegradable potty chair.

Happy Potty Learning All!

Sarah