Signs your toddler’s ready for potty training

Why do some toddlers master potty training in just a few days, while others struggle with accidents for moms?

It’s all…timing. Potty training involves many skills and abilities. Your toddler is more likely to ‘get’ potty training if he’s already reached certain milestones. If you wait until he’s ready—based on these simple signs—then potty training will be much easier for your child, and less frustrating and messy for you!

How good is your toddler’s bladder capacity?

Check your child’s diaper. Can he stay dry for two hours or more? This means that your child’s bladder capacity and control have improved, and he’s less likely to have an accident.

Can your toddler pull his pants up and down?

Even if he does it just for play or fun, at least you know that he can—and can run to the bathroom himself, if taught. Of course, make it easier for him by dressing him in clothes that are easy to slip off: gartered shorts, instead of anything with buttons or zippers.

Does your child know (and say) the words for peeing/pooing?

This is a very important milestone. Before that, he doesn’t know how to tell you that he needs to go the bathroom—or even recognizes and is aware of what he is doing.

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I s your child easily distracted?

While all toddlers have limited attention spans, ideally your toddler should be able to sit down and focus on an activity for at least 1 or 2 minutes. This is especially important when your toddler is still learning how to use a potty, and needs to ‘wait’ until he’s ready to get up.

Can your child understand simple instructions?

Potty training involves severa steps that your child needs to understand, master and remember. These include: going to the potty, turning on lights, pulling down the pants, sitting, wiping, washing hands. Your child should at least have the vocabulary and cognitive skills to know what you want him to do, and then repeat the sequence on his own.

Can your child walk well?

Your toddler should be able to go to walk—even run!—safely and quickly to the bathroom. You can also prevent accidents by observing when he usually fills a diaper, and then bringing him to the bathroom during those times.

Does your child show an interest in potty training?

He may complain about the feeling of wet and dirty diapers, or become curious about what you’re doing in the bathroom. Others get excited about wearing ‘big kid’ underwear.

Once you know you’re ready to start potty training, read our tips for successful potty training.

Photo from makeitworkmom.com