Did you know that most girls and over 75 percent of boys achieve staying dry through the night only by age six? Toilet training is a gradual but crucial step in a child’s development.
Your child will steadily move from diapers to underwear, from potty to toilet, and eventually to full-time control of their bathroom habits. Often, once they grasp one aspect, the others follow more easily, and your continued support is key to this progress.
Start by providing a stepstool or child-size toilet seat to make the transition smoother. Using a potty chart and a rewards system can also make the process more enjoyable. When away from home, accompany your child and help them stick to their routine—wiping, flushing, and washing hands. Bringing a portable potty seat and extra clothing on trips can be helpful, and letting your child observe you in unfamiliar places can boost their confidence. Before they start school, ensure they can easily pull their pants up and down.
These efforts not only build your child’s confidence but also show your commitment to their growth. By allowing them to develop at their own pace, offering praise for successes, and withholding criticism for setbacks, you teach them the value of setting and achieving goals. Helping them manage their personal needs like older children and adults supports their journey toward independence.
Toilet training success is not just a reflection of what your child has learned so far but also an indication of how they’ll face challenges and achieve goals in the future.
- Source: Guide to Toilet Training (Copyright © 2003 American Academy of Pediatrics)