Potty Learning: Are You and Your Child Ready?

We all want to say goodbye to messy diapers, but before starting potty learning, both the caregiver and child need to be ready.
Step 1: Are You Ready?Ask yourself:

• Do I have the patience and time for a process that may take 2–4 months?
  
• Is this a stable period for our family (no big moves, new baby, or major changes)?
  

Step 2: Is Your Child Ready?Signs include:

• Tells you when they pee/poop.
  
• Dislikes wet diapers.
  
• Wakes from naps dry.
  
• Can pull pants up/down.
  
• Is generally happy and settled.
  

Before You Start

• Encourage independence (dressing/undressing).
  
• Show wet vs. dry.
  
• Model bathroom use.
  

Tips to Avoid Power Struggles

• Keep potty books nearby for fun.
  
• Use a fun alarm sound and escort them to the potty.
  
• Offer choices (“hop or jump to the potty?”) instead of yes/no questions.
  

Stage 1: Getting Familiar

• Use diapers or pull-ups at first.
  
• Keep potty time short (5–8 min).
  
• Gradually move to training underwear after several dry days.
  

Stage 2: Building Routine

• Start with 30–45 min intervals (adjust as needed).
  
• Most children with typical development master potty learning within 3–4 months.
  

Ready to start?
Go for it—and share your success stories with other caregivers!