When Should I Start Potty Training my Preschooler?

The general consensus is that most children are ready to begin potty training somewhere between 18 to 24 months, or when they display certain behaviors that indicate potty training readiness. These behaviors include:

1. Staying dry for at least two hours at a time

Make sure your preschooler can stay dry for long periods of time. Bladder control is an important part of potty training, and several hours of dryness are an indication of more control.                                                                  

2. Having regular bowel movements

If your preschooler has a regular bowel movement, you can have them use the potty at the "usual" time. Regularity makes training easier!

3. The ability to articulate that their diaper is wet

If your child can tell you when they've soiled their diaper, there is a good chance they can tell you when they need to go as well! Use the occasions when your preschooler tells you that they are wet to encourage them to use the potty.

4. Disliking the feeling of a soiled diaper

When your little one is uncomfortable in a yucky diaper they are more likely to use the potty. If your preschooler does not seem bothered by a soiled diaper, try a underwear or training pants during training. Diapers may be too absorbent for your preschooler; they may need a greater sensation of wetness to feel uncomfortable.

5. An interest in, or the imitation of the parent's bathroom habits

If your preschooler wants to know what you are doing in the bathroom, or if they imitate your bathroom behaviors, they may be ready to potty train. Imitation is more than a sign of flattery here...it is a sign of readiness!

6. Adjustment to any recent "emotional upheaval", for example: moving, divorce, a new child-care provider or a new sibling

A major life change in your preschoolers life can delay or completely stop the potty training process. The best way to avoid this is to make sure your child's life is free from major changes. Postponing potty training until your child is able to focus on this new challenge will help in your child's success.

You can use these behavioral clues simply as an indication of when you can start the potty training process. If your preschooler is resistant to potty training, don't force or punish your child for accidents. Doing so may create more reluctance in the future. There are some schools of thought that eliminate the focus on potty training readiness altogether; they suggest that parents allow their preschoolers to learn to use the potty by association with other children.

In either case, an important, often forgotten potty training readiness factor is parental readiness. You must be able to dedicate the time, energy and encouragement that your preschooler will need for successful potty training, so make sure you are able to commit before involving your preschooler in the process!