ages + stages | toddler
ages + stages | toddler
fall in and avoid loose clothing that can make it hard to navigate around your child .
Teach Technique | Show your child proper wiping techniques – like wiping front to back . For girls , explain she should wipe until she feels dry after “ number 1 .” Teach her to wipe until it comes out clean after “ number two .” If there ’ s anything in the toilet , always end with a victorious flush .
Check In | Check your child ’ s wiping without doing the work for them . Try , “ Let ’ s check to make sure that you ’ re done .” For older and more skilled kids , try , “ Can you check ?” As children get more confident and comfortable , you can give them more privacy to do this on their own .
Wash Up | Whether or not they actually “ go ”, always finish your potty routine with a good hand washing . 20 seconds is a good scrubbing time . Be sure to explain why it ’ s important to wash their hands after every time they use the potty .
Celebrate | Praise will encourage more cooperation than nagging or threats . Learning this kind of control can be scary for your little one . Panic only causes more accidents . Encouraging words and little rewards for every successful step in the right direction will work wonders . And on the first day they manage to stay dry all day – make that a special celebration lunch , day with mom or dad , etc .
Accidents Will Happen | When one occurs ask your child what he or she thinks happened and ask them to help come up with ways to avoid that next time .
Children might be scared or forgot they weren ’ t wearing a diaper . Don ’ t lose your cool . Try to solve the problem together and praise each little successful step . Soon you ’ ll reach the coveted potty training goal — together .
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