Potty training for toddlers is one of those big parenting milestones that can feel daunting at first. As a mom of two little girls, balancing my 9 to 5 professional life, household chores, and spending time with my kids, I know how overwhelming it can be to tackle this challenge. But after navigating through my own potty training journey with my girls, I’ve learned that the key to success is recognizing when your child is truly ready—and not rushing the process.
By the way before I get in to it, I read the Oh Crap! Potty Training book. Grab your copy here:
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Signs of Readiness: When to Start the Potty Training Journey
In this post, I want to share my personal insights on the signs of readiness for potty training, especially from the perspective of a busy working mom. I’ll walk you through how to recognize the signals, how to navigate the potty training process with positivity, and how to stay patient when things don’t go as planned. Because at the end of the day, potty training is more about understanding your child’s needs and creating a positive experience than following any strict timeline or societal expectations.
Understanding Readiness: It’s About More Than Age
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) typically states that potty training readiness signs begin to emerge between 18 and 30 months. But here’s the thing: every child is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to potty training. Just because your friend’s child is potty-trained by 2 years old doesn’t mean your child should be as well. It’s easy to get caught up in age-related myths or compare your child to others, but trust me, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress by focusing on your child’s unique development.
My oldest daughter, for instance, showed signs of readiness at a much earlier age. She started expressing interest in the potty and wanting to wear “big girl” underwear around 18 months. However, my younger daughter was much slower to show those same signs and needed more time. This difference in timing was normal, and I had to remind myself that this is her journey, not a race. So, as you begin to think about when to start the potty training journey with your toddler, try to remember that readiness isn’t defined by age—it’s about their individual cues and development.
Key Signs Your Child is Ready for Potty Training
- Staying Dry for Longer Periods One of the first signs of readiness for potty training is your child staying dry for longer periods—usually around 2 hours or more. If your child can go a few hours without needing a diaper change, that’s a good indicator that they are gaining control over their bladder. I remember noticing this with my older daughter. She would wake up in the morning with a dry diaper, and I realized it was time to start thinking about potty training.
Of course, accidents still happened, and they’re part of the process. But this ability to stay dry for longer stretches is a foundational sign that your child’s bladder control is developing, which is essential for potty training success.
- Interest in the Potty Chair or Toilet Seat Another strong sign of readiness is your child’s curiosity about the potty chair or toilet seat. If they’re showing interest in watching others use the bathroom or want to explore the potty on their own, it’s a good time to start introducing them to the process. You can try putting the potty chair in the bathroom or allowing them to sit on it while fully clothed to help them get familiar with the idea.
For my girls, introducing the potty chair was a gradual process. I let them explore the potty when they showed interest—sitting on it with their clothes on, and eventually, without. I also made sure the potty was accessible to them, which helped them feel more in control and encouraged their curiosity. You could also introduce a potty training watch to make the process more fun—something like the Kidnovations Premium Potty Training Watch that includes a handy timer for potty breaks. This tool, combined with a positive potty training method, worked wonders for keeping my girls engaged and on track!
- Communicating the Need to Go If your child starts communicating when they need to go—whether it’s by saying “pee-pee” or by pulling at their diaper or pants—it’s a clear sign they are becoming aware of their bodily functions. This is a huge milestone and one that should not be overlooked. The ability to tell you when they need to go means they are ready to begin associating the feeling with the action.
With my younger daughter, this was one of the first signs I saw. She would say, “Mommy, potty!” and point to the bathroom when she had to go. That’s when I knew it was time to start our potty training journey. It took time to build the habit, but this communication made the process so much smoother.
- Following Simple Instructions Potty training involves a lot of steps, including learning when to go, where to go, and how to clean up afterward. If your child is able to follow simple instructions—like pulling down their pants, sitting on the potty, and washing their hands afterward—they’re likely ready for the potty training stage. This doesn’t happen all at once, of course, but being able to follow basic commands is a sign they’re ready for more structure and guidance in this process.
I started introducing simple instructions during our practice runs. “Let’s pull down your pants,” “Now, sit on the potty,” and eventually, “Let’s flush and wash your hands.” Repetition helped my girls understand what was expected, and seeing them follow those simple steps was encouraging for me as a mom.
- Desire for Independence If your child expresses a desire for independence, it’s another important sign that they may be ready for potty training. When toddlers start to want to do things on their own—whether it’s dressing themselves or making choices—it shows they are starting to understand self-sufficiency. Potty training is a great way to foster this independence, and helping them feel in control of their own bodily functions will only boost their confidence.
When my girls wanted to pick out their own underwear or decided they were ready to wear a pull-up, it was clear they were becoming more independent. I encouraged their choices while guiding them through the process, reinforcing their growing sense of autonomy.
Navigating the Potty Training Process with Patience
As much as I want to encourage you to embrace these signs of readiness and begin the potty training journey, it’s equally important to acknowledge that the process will come with its own set of challenges. There will be accidents, frustrating moments, and days when it feels like nothing is clicking. That’s okay! In fact, it’s normal. Potty training is a huge transition, and it requires patience, understanding, and a good sense of humor.
I remember feeling stressed and overwhelmed at times, especially when my girls would have accidents or refuse to use the potty. But over time, I learned that staying calm and positive was the key to moving through those moments with less stress. Rather than focusing on the setbacks, I celebrated the small wins: like when they used the potty once or told me they needed to go.
Practical Tips for Getting Started
Now that we’ve covered the signs of readiness, I want to share some practical tips that helped me navigate potty training with two toddlers.
- Create a Routine with Time Intervals Potty training doesn’t happen in one sitting, so setting a routine is key. I used a potty training timer to help remind us when it was time for a potty break. Using something like the Potty Training Timer Watch was a great help for keeping track of time intervals, especially during the early stages. We started with 90-minute intervals, which gave my girls plenty of time to stay dry and make it to the potty on time.
- Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement worked wonders in our house. For every successful potty time, we would offer praise, stickers, or even a fun potty training game. This made the experience feel like a celebration rather than a chore, and the more I emphasized the positive moments, the more motivated my girls were to keep trying. I also used a sticker chart to help my girls visualize their progress and reward them for consistency.
- Keep a Potty Training Kit Always keep a “potty training kit” with extra clothes, wipes, and a change of underwear, especially when you’re out and about. This kit was essential for avoiding the stress of unexpected accidents. Having plenty of clean diapers or pull-ups as backup also made me feel more confident during the transition.
- Set Realistic Expectations Potty training is a process, and it’s important to set realistic expectations. Some days will go smoothly, while others may feel like setbacks. Embrace the hard work and be kind to yourself—parenting is a learning experience, and potty training is no different.
The 5 Do’s and Don’ts of Potty Training: A Guide to Smooth Sailing
Potty training can feel like a series of trial and error. Every child is different, and every parent has their own approach. But there are some essential do’s and don’ts that can make a huge difference in how smoothly the potty training process goes. With my own two girls, I learned a lot along the way. Below, I’ve compiled the key do’s and don’ts that helped me navigate the ups and downs of potty training—plus a few potty training tips to help you avoid some common pitfalls.
Do: Be Patient and Take Your Time
When starting toilet training, it’s crucial to remember that it’s a gradual process. Every child will take their own time to master the skills needed for potty training. Rushing through it or trying to force things can lead to frustration for both you and your toddler. Whether it’s the first day or week of potty training, the amount of time it takes will vary from child to child.
For example, my older daughter was pretty quick to catch on after just a few days. But my younger daughter took a little longer to feel comfortable with the little potty and transitioning away from training pants. It’s normal to experience some potty training blues during this stage. Some days your child will be excited to use the potty, and on others, they might have accidents or refuse to even try. Take things at a pace that works for both of you.
Don’t: Compare Your Child’s Progress to Others
It can be hard not to compare your child’s potty training journey to others, especially when you see your friend’s child potty-trained within a few days or weeks. But remember, every child is different, and the age at which children are ready to start toilet training can vary greatly. The latest trends in potty training might offer advice or methods, but it’s more important to listen to your child’s cues and progress at their pace.
With both of my girls, I had to remind myself that they were not on the same timeline. Some children take to the potty immediately, while others might need a bit more time. Focus on your child’s unique readiness signs and celebrate every step forward—whether big or small.
Do: Celebrate Successes (No Matter How Small)
One of the most important things you can do during potty training is to celebrate successes, no matter how small they might seem. Whether your child successfully uses the potty after a few tries or simply sits on the little potty without resistance, those are big milestones! Positive reinforcement, whether through verbal praise, a potty chart, or stickers, goes a long way in keeping your child motivated.
With my girls, we created a sticker chart to track progress and celebrate each potty trip. After a few successful attempts, they were eager to earn more stickers, and I could see their confidence growing. The key is to keep it positive and make it fun—remember, potty training should be a positive experience, not a stressful one.
Don’t: Pressure or Punish for Accidents
Accidents will happen—it’s part of the potty training journey. No matter how much you prepare, your toddler might still have accidents, especially in the early stages. It’s important to remember that punishment and pressure only add to the potty training blues. Instead of scolding your child when they have an accident, offer reassurance and stay calm. This helps reduce any anxiety around potty training and lets your child feel more comfortable in the process.
When my girls had accidents, I made sure to stay patient and not raise my voice. I would gently remind them of the potty and offer words of encouragement, like, “Next time, we’ll make it to the potty!” Avoiding pressure ensures that potty training stays a low-stress activity for both you and your child.
Do: Make the Potty Accessible and Fun
The more your child feels comfortable and empowered by the potty training process, the more likely they are to succeed. Make sure the little potty or toilet seat is accessible and easy for them to use. Some kids prefer a training potty, while others like a regular toilet with a potty seat. With both of my girls, we had both options available. I made sure that the potty was something they could approach on their own—without needing too much help at first.
You can also make potty time fun by letting your toddler choose their own training pants or even giving them a potty training watch. My girls loved the idea of using a Kidnovations Premium Potty Training Watch that helped remind them when it was potty time. The fun vibration feature made the whole process feel more like a game, and they were excited to check their potty progress. Making potty time fun and accessible is one of the best potty training tips I can offer.
In Summary: Potty Training Done Right
Navigating toilet training doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can create a positive potty training experience for both you and your toddler. It’s important to remember that the amount of time it takes and the milestones you reach will vary based on your child’s readiness, and that’s okay! Keep things fun, stay patient, and celebrate every success along the way—because every step forward is a win.
The process might not be perfect every day, and you may experience some potty training blues, but don’t give up. Stay calm, be consistent, and soon enough, your child will be ready for this big step towards potty training success!
FAQ: Answers to Your Most Common Potty Training Questions
What age should a toddler be potty trained?
The age at which toddlers are ready for potty training can vary, but most children show signs of readiness between 18 and 30 months but maybe later for older children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, these signs might include staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in using the potty, and understanding basic instructions. However, it’s important to remember that every child is different, so the best time to start potty training is when your child is showing interest and seems ready, regardless of their exact age.
For my own girls, I noticed signs of readiness around 24 months for my first daughter, and a bit later for my second. Both had different timelines, and I learned not to rush them but to follow their cues. Trusting your child’s readiness signs will make the process smoother for both of you. My second child did not even use the nighttime diaper once she got the hang of it, while my other had a longer time frame for getting rid of that.
What is the 3-day potty method?
The 3-day potty training method is an intensive approach to potty training where parents focus on a short, highly concentrated time period—typically 3 days—to help their child learn how to use the potty. The method involves a lot of positive reinforcement, consistency, and dedication. During the 3 days, parents should stay home and closely monitor their child’s potty habits, reinforcing good behavior and encouraging potty use.
While the 3-day method can work well for some children, it’s important to note that not every child will adapt in this short period. If you try this method, be prepared for accidents and to stay patient. The biggest takeaway is to commit to the process and remain consistent. I personally used a slightly more relaxed approach, but the 3-day method can be a good fit for those looking for an intense, short-term solution.
What is the easiest way to potty train a child?
The easiest way to potty train a child is one that fits both your child’s readiness and your family’s lifestyle. For some kids, gradual training with plenty of praise and positive reinforcement is the easiest method. Start by introducing the potty and encouraging your child to sit on it. Some children respond well to rewards, like sticker charts or potty training watches, which help motivate them.
The key is patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency. From my experience, creating a routine, using training pants, and making the potty accessible helped my girls understand what was expected of them. Additionally, avoiding stress and keeping a calm, encouraging atmosphere worked wonders.
What is the 10-minute rule for potty training?
The 10-minute rule is a general guideline that recommends taking your child to the potty every 10 to 15 minutes during the early stages of training. This frequent timing helps your child get used to the idea of using the potty regularly, which can reduce accidents. It also helps them learn to recognize their bodily cues for when they need to go.
In my own experience, this rule worked wonders when my daughters were first starting out. At first, they didn’t recognize the sensation of needing to go, so frequent trips to the potty helped them get in the habit of using it. As they became more comfortable, we gradually increased the time between trips.
What is the most successful potty training method?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for the most successful potty training method, as different methods work for different children. That said, some of the most popular methods include the child-oriented method (where you wait until your child shows interest and readiness signs), the 3-day method, and the gradual training approach (where you introduce potty training over a period of weeks or months).
What I found most effective with my daughters was a combination of gradual training and positive reinforcement. Instead of pushing too hard, I allowed them to explore the potty training process at their own pace, using rewards and encouragement to keep them motivated. Listening to your child’s cues and providing consistent support is key to success.
What not to say when potty training?
Potty training can be stressful, and it’s easy to get frustrated when things aren’t going as planned. However, there are certain phrases you should avoid during the process to keep your child positive and motivated. For example:
- “Why didn’t you make it to the potty?”: This can make your child feel ashamed and discouraged.
- “You’re a big kid now—why can’t you do this?”: This puts pressure on your child and can make them feel like they’re failing.
- “It’s time for a potty break. Don’t make me remind you again!”: This is a negative approach that could lead to potty training blues, making the process feel like a chore rather than a positive learning experience.
Instead, use gentle reminders like, “Let’s try to use the potty!” or “Great job trying! Next time, we’ll try to make it to the potty.” Positive reinforcement will help your child feel more confident and motivated.
By keeping these phrases in mind, you can foster a positive and supportive environment that helps your child succeed in potty training. Trust me, the journey will feel a lot smoother when both you and your child approach it with patience, positivity, and understanding.
Potty training can feel like an overwhelming journey, but with the right tools, knowledge, and mindset, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you choose the 3-day method, rely on gradual training, or use a potty training watch to keep things fun, the important thing is to stay consistent, patient, and encouraging. Through each stage of potty training, remember that every child is different, and finding the method that works best for them will lead to long-term success!
Celebrating Your Child’s Potty Training Success
As I wrapped up my potty training journey with my girls, I encourage you to celebrate every victory, no matter how small. Whether it’s staying dry for the first time, mastering the toilet seat, or simply showing interest in potty time, each step forward is worth celebrating.
Remember, potty training isn’t just about teaching your child; it’s also about fostering patience, understanding, and positive communication. Trust your instincts, stay calm during the tough moments, and remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Potty training is a big deal for both you and your child, and with a little support, positivity, and understanding, you’ll get through it together.
Good luck on your potty training journey—you’ve got this!
