To help make it that little bit easier on you, here are five tried and tested toilet training tips.
Are they ready to do it?
Knowing when and if they are ready to be toilet trained is an important part of the process. Starting before they are ready will simply make the job so much harder for you both, as you struggle with your patience and your child struggles to understand what needs to be done. Signs that they are ready include an interest in the toilet, asking to sit on it or pulling their nappy off.
Help them recognise when they need to go to the toilet
One of the most important things you need to do is help your child recognise when they need to go to the toilet. When they start jumping around, shuffling, or squeezing their legs together tell them they need to go to the toilet and take them there. For the first few weeks they won’t fully be able to put two and two together so they will need your help.
Make sure everyone is on the same page
Whether your child is in crèche, has a minder or is being looked after by family, it is important that everyone uses the same language so that your youngster doesn’t become confused by different phrases. Again, if you are using certain rewards you need to inform others and ensure they do the same when your son or daughter is in their care. This way they won’t become confused.
Don’t force them
Don’t force your child to do something that they are not comfortable with. Not having a nappy anymore is a big step for a child and sometimes aspects of the process can be frightening like the sound of the toilet flushing. Explain everything that is happening and never force them to do a poo or a wee if they are feeling uncomfortable – they will simply associate the toilet with negativity.
If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again
If your youngster is struggling to grasp the basic concept of toilet training after several weeks they might not be ready. Instead of forcing the issue, simply take a break and try again in a couple of months.
