Should You Start Potty Training Early?

Should You Start Potty Training Early?

Is your child ready for toilet training?
Many parents start potty training children between 18 months and three years of age. But, if you watch for the signs of readiness your child may just be ready to start early. As long as they can understand your instructions, and can physically accomplish the task at hand you can slowly begin the process.

Readiness signs to look for

Your child wants to wear underwear Their bowel movements are on a timely schedule If the child is uncomfortable in a diaper If the child asks you about, or shows interest in the potty If the child can understand and follow simple directions

Contrary to popular belief there is no magic age to start the potty training process. Every child's development and growth is different, and unique. Some children will be able to understand and follow the process at two years old, while others may not until almost four years old.

Even if your child isn't showing all of the tell tale signs of readiness, you can still offer encouragement. There is a vast selection of potty training DVDs, dolls, and books at your disposal. If a child starts watching a potty training DVD they might become interested and pay closer attention to the process at an earlier age than if they weren't introduced to it at all.

Giving your child a say
Many children act up and continue to act up until they feel their voice is heard. Bringing your child into the potty training process can help. Bring them to the store and let them select the underwear they want. Buy them stickers and let them decorate their little potty as they see fit. Encouraging them along the way at all times is extremely important.

A word of caution
The toilet training process is an important part of development. Punishing a child for having an accident, or misinterpreting your instructions will have severe consequences. Not only will it set back your potty training efforts but it can scar their psyche. Accidents are a part of the training, and you should deal with them by showing as little emotion as possible. Children can read their parents and will know if your upset by something they did.

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