Ellasphere

potty training December 10, 2007

Reaching the decision to begin potty training is the easy part. The tougher one is tackling it successfully so the end result pleases both parent and child. A book written by Penny Warner and Paula Kelly entitled “Toilet Training without Tears or Trauma” tells us how. Here are some tried-and-true tips.

1. Look for physical signs of readiness. If your child can already climb on and off the toilet throne or on a potty-chair, and if his bowel movements are predictable and regular,and/or if child can pull his/her pants up and down by him/herself, then he/she is ready.

2.  See if your child can follow instructions, and if he/she can focus on a task for a long time, or if you see if they seem to know when he/she is urinating or defecating, or if he/she can communicate if he/she wants to go to the comfort room, then he/she is ready.

3.  Toilet training clothes may also be of help like pull-ups, cloth underwear for easier pull up or down.

4. Affirm the child to repeat the action.

5. Parents may want to model how it is done. Do not get mad at them when they fail to make it to the comfort room when attempting.

6.  Before your child goes to sleep, remind him/her to take the last trip to the potty to help him/her stay overnight.

7. Make it fun for your child. Use doll play or songs and games to encourage him/her to use the comfort room.

8. Keep in mind that your child will be potty trained someday.

The book mentioned also features some questions frequently asked by parents and some tips as to how to troubleshoot problems. It is really an easy-to-read book and will be helpful as you train your child to success in the bathroom.