Is Your Child Ready To Begin Potty Training?

Before taking the big plunge into potty training our first son I received so many different opinions on potty training.  Especially because CJ was a boy.  Between warnings/advice from other mothers and reading many articles/research about potty training, the general consensus was that boys…

• were more difficult to train
• will train later (age wise) than a typical girl would
• the potty training process will take longer compared to a girl 

Regardless of all the information I received I decided to discuss the topic of potty training over with our pediatrician.  He gave me fantastic information and advice/tips to use as we began the process.

The average age a child may be ready physically and mentally to begin potty training is 2 years old.  

With that being said it really depends on each individual child.  You can not make a child start potty training.  In fact,  if they aren’t ready and you push it too much it can actually backfire.

So how do you know if you child may be ready?   

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Prior to Potty Training…

1. Does your child stay dry for at least two hours at a time during the day?
2.  Does your child wake up dry from a nap?
3. Does your child seem uncomfortable with soiled diapers and want to be changed?
4. Is it obvious to you when your child is about to urinate or have a bowel movement?
5. Can your child walk to and from the bathroom, and undress himself?
6. Does your child ask to use the toilet or potty chair?
7. Are your child’s bowel movements regular and predictable?
8. Does your child regularly imitate you or show interest in you when you are using the bathroom?
9. Can your child follow simple instructions?
10. Does your child express interest in wearing “grown-up” underwear?

If you can answer yes to the majority of these questions – Your child is likely to be ready and has great potential for success.

If your answer is no than reevaluate in a few months.

Okay, so now it’s time to start potty training.  Where do you begin?

Stop by next Tuesday for some great tips and advice on potty training!