When to begin potty training a child

When to begin potty training a child

Most children begin to show signs to begin toilet training between 18 months to 3 years of age. Some of these signs include staying dry for 2 hours or more, having regular bowel movements, becoming uncomfortable with dirty or wet diapers and wanting to be changed, able to follow simple instructions, asking to use the toilet or potty and asking to wear underwear.

Your child can exhibit signs that will let you know when he/she is about to have to urinate or have a bowel movement by his/her facial expressions, posture or by what he/she does. If your child can verbalize when he/she has a dirty or wet diaper, you should praise him/her and encourage him or her to tell you in advance next time. Stickers and reward charts work well for positive encouragement.

Keep in mind, however, that there is no rush to begin potty training. If you start training too early, before your child is ready, you will prolong the whole process and possibly your child will regress back a stage.