Potty training can be a challenging time for parents, with most feeling pretty apprehensive about the whole business. However, following a few do’s and don’ts should help ensure potty training is a fun and exciting journey, with parents able to enjoy helping their little one take their first step on the path toward becoming a ‘big kid’!
Starting out
Don’t force it! Toddlers are programmed by nature to understand when they are ready for new developmental stages, so forcing your child to start before they are ready will be unsuccessful.
Do read the signs - if your little one is letting you know when they are wet, showing signs that they feel uncomfortable in their nappy, or are staying dry for a few hours at a time, they are most likely ready to use a potty.
Set an example
Sometimes the best way to teach your child is to show them the way!
Do take your child to the toilet with you and let them know what you are doing, this will stop them being afraid of the loo.
Make it fun
Potty training is an exciting time for both parent and child so make sure you have some fun with it!
Do create positive links with the potty for your child to ensure the journey is a fun one. For example, buy the potty together to include them in the process and give them ownership by allowing them to decorate and personalise it with stickers.
Do swap from nappies to potty training pants, like PULL-UPS, which have fun graphics that your toddler will love and with stretchy sides they can be easily pulled on and off – putting your little one in the ‘big kid’ frame of mind!
Keeping your cool
Don’t stress over how long it is taking or fret over little accidents! You and your toddler will get there, but if you stress it will create a negative environment, which will not help your child progress.
Do be patient. Let your child set the pace of their training and do not allow them to become distressed – if they are screaming no, listen to them. Potty training should be a collaborative experience that is chilled for everyone involved, if it doesn’t feel relaxed don’t force the training further!
Reward on the road to success
Encouragement works wonders, so make sure you reward your little one along the way to keep the potty training process fun and exciting.
Do clap your hands, celebrate and smile whenever your child successfully uses their potty.
Do inspire your child with a star or progress chart. These are a good way of showing your little one their success visually. Visit www.pottytraining.co.uk
to download a free Disney progress chart to get you started.
Do cuddle your child. Hugs are a really great way of making kids feel successful and, let’s face it, all parents should ensure these are available by the bucketful!
For a free copy of Emma Kenny’s potty training guide, as well as PULL-UPS® step-by-step videos and much more click here (insert hyperlink to www.pottytraining.co.uk)
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Potty training expert Emma Kenny of www.pottytraining.co.uk
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