Baby Advice: When Should I Start Potty Training?

Tired of changing dirty nappies all day long? Are you a new parent with no idea about when you should start potty training your child?

Like your baby’s first steps and first words, potty training depends entirely on your child’s readiness to take up the task. This means that the “right age” for potty training may vary for each toddler. Most, however, begin to show signs of readiness at 18-24 months. Girls also tend to learn to be potty trained earlier than boys. What are the tell-tale signs that your toddler is ready?

1. Learning to say “pee” and “poo”

The first sign that your child is ready to be potty trained is when he begins to inform you through words or facial expressions that he has to go. This shows that your child is beginning to understand the concept of peeing and pooing and that soon, you’ll be able to explain to them what a potty is for.

2. Hating the dirty nappy

Another sign that your child may be ready to be trained to use the potty is when she begins to feel uncomfortable wearing a soiled diaper. Toddlers usually express this through crying when they wet or soil themselves.

3. Imitating grown-up bathroom habits

When your child begins to show interest in your bathroom habits (following you around, asking what the toilet is, playing with the flush), you can start thanking your lucky stars because you’re well on your way to diaper freedom. Encourage this behavior by explaining things to him.

4. Motor skills

Before you even start thinking about potty training your child, make sure she has developed adequate motor skills like standing, walking and knowing how to pull her pants up and down.

5. Staying dry

Learning how to control urine/bowel movements is perhaps one of the most blaring signs that your child is ready to be potty-trained. Observe how long your child can stay dry. If he can keep from soiling his nappies for three or four hours, then it means his bladder muscles have developed well enough to store urine.

Let your child give you the signs that he is ready. You will know when you should start potty training him when the time is right. Whether he is 1 1/2 or 4 years old, it will be a significant milestone for you and your child.

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