Potty Training: Do's and Don'ts

The battle is half won, once your toddler is psychologically and developmentally ready to shift from diapering to potty training. While different strategies work with different children, here are a few do's and don'ts that will help you get the job done with a little more ease.

Do's

Take a gradual step: Once ready for potty training don't discontinue the use of diapers. Use the disposable ones that can be easily pulled up and down by the toddler while they are using the potty. They prove to be very helpful in case in event of an accident, where they absorb like diapers. Shift to the regular cotton underpants post a few successful attempts at using the potty.

Allow them some bare time: This is important to get them aware about their own body signals. Let them roam bare in a closed space where the potty is easily accessible so they can act when the time comes.

Choose easy comfortable clothing: Don't let the better of zippers; buttons or clasps get the better of your child's urge to visit the potty themselves. Bottoms with elastic are the best thing as they are getting the hang of things.

Observe and suggest: Observe the toddler for specific body signs when they receive the nature's call. Nudge or suggest them if they need to visit the potty. Just in case they are late, still have them seated on the potty to reinforce the connection.

Offer praise and keep them motivated: Establish connect between using the potty and growing up. Pat on the back along with materialistic motivators like small gifts, coins in the piggy bank for every successful potty visit can help them keep focus on the target.

Don'ts
This process might seem endless, but sooner or later your toddler will realize that it really is better to use the potty than wear diapers.

1. Even the most enthusiastic kids take long to master potty training. Expecting too much will diminish their self confidence.
2. Don't scold, punish or mistreat if they wet or soil their clothes. Be patient else you might discourage their future attempts.
3. Don't deny drinks to avoid accidents when on the move. This is particularly unhealthy and not a wise way to potty train children.
4. Nagging or forcing eventually leads to more resistance. You can only direct as a parent. The final action should be left to the child.
5. If you see a lot of resistance, shut the topic off until the toddler himself approaches the same.
6. Never ever make the mistake of comparing them with peers who have already moved on and mastered potty training.