There's so many memories that you'll cherish when it comes to raising your child. Often toilet training is not one of them. Many parents are not the least bit sentimental about changing their child's nappy and transitioning to underpants. Toilet training is an important time in each child's life and the amount of time that it takes may vary from child to child. Some toddlers learn this new skill quickly, while others need more support.
Like most important lessons early childhood, it is best to begin when your toddler is already showing an interest in using the toilet. Multiple studies have shown that beginning the toilet training process before he or she is ready only extends the process longer than necessary. To determine whether or not your child is ready, take a look at this developmental checklist and compare to the traits you can identify in your own child.
Just like anything else, the more your child uses the toilet the easier it will become. Toilet training might take days or months. It’s not a race. The key is to not push your child. Relax and let him or her learn at his or her own pace. Use gentle encouragement with reminders and stories. What your child wants most is to please you, and praising him or her will provide positive reinforcement.
Tony Barton
Author