Are You Ready for Potty Training?

It’s hard to believe the tiny baby you brought home from the hospital, what seems like yesterday, is now a walking, learning little person. Where did my baby go? That is the question we’ve all asked ourselves at one time.

How Will I Know It’s Time to Begin

Realizing your baby is growing up is a hard pill for some parents to swallow, and you may not be ready for this level of independence quite yet. Give yourself the credit you deserve. You did such a good job nurturing your child with all the love and confidence they will need to continue to grow.

All the books and blogs you have read indicate your toddler is finally ready to start this new milestone in their life, potty training. And while there may be signs that they are prepared to try, you may not be quite ready for the emotions and frustrations of potty training.

Potty Training is Exhausting

During the process, accidents happen. Constantly cleaning up messes can be frustrating. Remember your child feels this energy and may feel like they did something wrong.

Teaching your toddler to use the potty requires patience, kindness, consistency and why not add lots of fun! This is exactly what the Potty Train with Pinky Bear system is all about!

Ask for Help If You Need It

No rule says only one parent or caregiver must be the designated potty trainer. Accept help where you can find it. If a grandparent or spouse is willing to learn your favorite potty-training method, teach them.

Some children start being able to control their bowel or bladder movements around twelve months. While others will show many signs of readiness, they may be unable to control elimination until much later.

Since all kids learn at their own pace, your experience might not be the same as your neighbors’. Remember, your child is unique in every way and their potty training experience can be too!

Signs Your Child is Ready to Begin Potty-training

Physical

Motor skills are developed enough to walk, and even run, steadily.
Diaper remains dry for more extended periods, which indicates their bladder muscles are developed enough.
Can pull their pants up and down.

Behavioral

Hides behind furniture when making a bowel movement. Shows understanding of privacy and ‘needing’ to go.
Dislikes the feeling of a wet or dirty diaper.
Telling you, they have to go potty.

Cognitive

Can understand simple concepts like let’s play ball and will get the ball.
Likes to put things away in an orderly fashion.
Vocabulary includes potty and other words for going to the bathroom.

Timing is Everything

Don’t wait until you’ve checked off every item to start training. Just look for a general trend toward independence. A great way to gauge your child’s willingness to learn is by reading Potty Train with Pinky Bear and see if they react to the simple instructions and show signs of excitement. Then, jump right in and embrace the fun!