Let’s Talk Potty Training

12 Jun Let’s Talk Potty Training

Potty training can be a very exciting and very frustrating time in any parent’s life. While most parents are understandably excited when they are about to be done with diapers, getting their children to that point isn’t always easy. While going to the bathroom seems relatively simple and straightforward to us as adults, there are many steps involved in the process for kids. This includes discussion, undressing, actually going to the bathroom, wiping, dressing, flushing, and hand-washing.

That’s a lot of steps—and as parents, you need to be encouraging and supportive during each one. This is also why potty training can seem like a lot. Parents need to stay patient while attempting to potty train their child and understand that there are many different concepts that children need to learn. So, how do you know when it’s time to start with potty training?

Here are a few of our tips on when to start the potty training process:

• Your child can imitate your behaviors
• Your child understands how to put things back where they belong
• Your child knows how to demonstrate they can be independent
• Your child knows how to say “no.”
• Your child has an interest in potty training
• Your child follows you into the bathroom
• Your child knows how to walk and sit down
• Your child can tell you when he’s “going” to the bathroom
• Your child knows when they have “to go.”
• Your child has the physical skills needed to pull up their pants and take own their pants.

Remember, every child is unique, and every child will handle potty training at their speed and have their temperament when it comes to learning this important behavior. Consider your child’s moods and the time of the day when you are attempting to teach potty training—and understand that some children will get very discouraged with the process.

Some children “get” potty training quickly and easily while others struggle a bit more with the process. If you are worried there may be something going on outside of regular frustrations, accidents and setbacks, contact us here at Continuum Pediatrics to learn more. You can reach us directly by calling 817-617-8600 to schedule your appointment today.