One of the most common questions I hear as a professional potty training consultant is, “How do I know when my child is ready?” There are some classic signs and signals you can look for including: a general interest in the bathroom, asking for a new diaper when they are wet or dirty, hiding to have a bowel movement, staying dry for longer periods throughout the day, and waking up dry from naps and/or overnight. Your child should also possess basic communication skills, either verbal or physical, and the ability to understand and follow basic direction. These things usually start presenting themselves somewhere between 22 and 28 months, making this the ideal age to potty train. Age isn’t everything though, so don’t fret if your kiddo is no longer in that window! You also need to think about the best time to potty train. This should be a time without a lot of other changes taking place, and where you can choose a couple of days to focus solely on your child and their potty behavior. Keep in mind, that it is also just as important for you to be ready as your child’s teacher and coach. If you are prepared to fully commit and remain consistent with a plan that matches your child’s unique personality and potty learning style, it is sure to make for a successful potty training experience! 

Once you are ready to start the process, here are three unique potty training tips that you probably won't hear anywhere else!  

Tip 1: Take some time before you begin potty training to count down the days to no more diapers with your little one. About 3 to 5 days before you're ready to start, wake up each morning and "x" off the day on the calendar together (or make a paper chain and tear off a loop!). Not only does this help your child mentally prepare for the upcoming change they're about to experience, but it gives you the opportunity to build their confidence so they believe they can do it! This technique works really well for stubborn kiddos who tend to be resistant to change. During this countdown period, engage your child with some fun potty-related activities such as reading potty books, watching potty videos, and having toys pretend to go potty! 

Tip 2: If your child ever seems anxious, apprehensive, or even afraid to release their pee and poop on the potty, try my bubble trick! Did you know that when you blow out air, it activates the same muscles we use to pass our bladder and bowels? It's true! So while your little one is set up on the potty, try letting them blow bubbles or blow through a straw into a glass of milk or water. Not only does getting to do this fun activity entice your child to try, but it also relaxes them AND helps them pass the pee and poop! Gotta love an effective trick that is actually FUN! 

Tip 3: When you're ready to introduce underwear to your child, buy them in a size larger than what they would normally wear. Having the underwear be a slightly looser fit will help them remain more aware of their body's sensations and urges and will be less easily confused with a diaper. This tends to reduce accidents and make the transition from diapers or bottomless to clothing easier, and who doesn't want that?!  

If you feel like you need more support with your potty training journey, feel free to reach out to me via my website at www.pottytrainingconsultant.com to be connected with a certified consultant and follow me on Instagram @pottytrainingconsultant for free information and tips!  

To join the team and become a certified Potty Training Consultant, please email Allison at info@pottytrainingconsultant.com.   

Happy Pottying! xo