How to potty train a toddler and rid your child of diaper dependency
Let’s face it, kids are comfortable in diapers and it’s the only way they know to relieve themselves. Getting a child out of diapers and onto the potty can be quite a challenge, but definitely one of the most important milestones in a toddler’s life.
Many parents struggle to find a good solution to get their young children out of diapers. Believe it or not, 60% of parents have problems with potty training, usually due to a combination of bad advice, trial and error, and lack of knowledge. This can lead to a stressful situation for both the child and the parents.
Delaying training can also lead to mental and health risks for the child. Imagine the utter embarrassment for a child who is 4 years old or about to go to kindergarten, where he is the only one who is not potty trained. A child who is having a difficult and stressful time transitioning to the toilet may develop unresolved constipation issues. In this situation, a child may prevent him from doing her needs and intestinal problems may appear. This can be very serious, but the good news is that it can be avoided.
More often than not, new parents listen to advice from friends and family on how to potty train a toddler. Unfortunately, what works for one child may not work for another. Here are some things not to do when trying to potty train.
1. You keep buying fancy training aids because they look so convincing.
Sometimes simpler is better and a great fancy training aid can confuse and complicate the situation.
2. You try a seemingly popular technique and it doesn’t work, so you abandon it entirely.
As with anything with children, consistency is the key. Most things don’t work right away, but if you believe in it, keep working on it.
3. You let the kid run the show because he has to know when to go, right?
Children need guidance and direction. They need to be shown what to do over and over again before it finally clicks for them. Repetition is important.
Make sure your child is ready to be potty trained. This will ensure a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone. This is how you will know your child is ready.
1. The child can remain dry for long periods (usually hours).
2. Child understands and can follow simple directions.
3. The child is aware of what is happening.
4. Most importantly, the child shows interest in using the toilet and removing diapers.