In most cases, the child is potty-ready when around 2 years of age. But, this is not a general rule! Some kids may learn to use the potty earlier than others. It’s important not to compare your child to others, but to look for what’s best for them. Patience is the key, so before you start teaching your kid to use the potty, you need to know that there’s a chance it might take up some time.
But, there are ways to teach your kid to use the potty in a matter of days! You might want to try some of these 10 methods, which have been proven to work. It’s not a guarantee that all of them will be so efficient, but it’s definitely worth giving them a try.
1. Don’t Hurry
Some parents are eager to say goodbye to the diapers, but their kids might not yet be ready to use the potty. If you try to force them into learning how to use the potty, it may easily backfire. The trick is in realizing when your child is ready for the potty training!
2. Be Patient with the “Number 2”
Usually, kids learn how to use the potty to pee pretty quickly. But, when it comes to pooping, it’s a whole different story. Many children need more time to master this skill, so arm yourself with patience!
3. Make Sure to Award Your Kid for Doing a Good Job
When introducing the potty to your child, make sure to award them once they do a good job. Little “bribes” won’t hurt them. You can give your kid their favorite candy right after finishing with the potty. This way, they will want to use the potty, rather than diapers, knowing that an award waits for them.
4. Praise Matters
Although awarding your kid with a candy for using the potty is a good idea, some kids also appreciate the good-old praise. Let them feel as if they’re the center of the world, which will give them plenty of motivation to do an even better job the next time.
5. Get a Fun-Looking Potty
One of the reasons why kids refuse to go to the potty is that they’re afraid of it. Some children might think of their bowel movements as essential parts of their body. That is why they are afraid to let it go into something that looks strange.
That is why it is essential to buy a potty that won’t induce fear in your child. It needs to look nice and friendly. The good news is that there are literally thousands of different potties currently on the market, so finding one that your kid will like should not be a problem.
6. Comfort is What Matters the Most
You can’t expect your kid to be eager about using the potty if it’s uncomfortable. What this means is that you will need to get a comfy potty that won’t make your kid’s legs hurt if sitting on it for a few minutes. The same goes if your choice is not a potty, but an adapter for the toilet.
7. Get Your Kid Some Cool Underwear
Even if you manage to teach your kid how to use the potty, it doesn’t mean that they will love using it. Let’s face it – using a diaper is much easier, from the child’s point of view. The whole work is taken care by mom and dad. All you got to do is poop!
This is why it is crucial to make them forget about the diapers. You might achieve that by getting them some cool underwear. For example, one with their favorite cartoon characters printed on.
