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How to tell when your toddler is ready to begin potty training.
Parents of babies and toddlers who are still in diapers are often quite eager to know when they can begin potty training. And it's no wonder! Diapers are expensive, diapers are messy, and diaper changes can be time consuming. Unfortunately, there is no one age at which potty training should begin. Instead, most of it is dependent upon the child. So how can you tell when your child is ready? The following signs may indicate that the time has come: Awareness: Children who are nearing potty training readiness will be conscious of their urination and bowel movements. They seemingly concentrate on the tasks and some will even retreat to a more secluded spot where they can have a little privacy. Many children will inform their caregiver that they have a dirty diaper and want to be changed. Less Frequent Urination: As children get older and more ready to potty train, they will begin to urinate less frequently. This is not because they have less urine in their bladders, but rather that they are learning to hold it in for longer periods of time. This ability to "hold it" is a necessary part of toilet training. Regular Bowel Movements: Bowel movements that occur at about the same times every day are another sign of readiness. This makes things easier for parents who can then anticipate when the next movement will occur. Physical Ability to Use the Toilet: Children must be able to walk to the toilet, pull down their pants, situate themselves on the toilet, wipe themselves (not necessarily thoroughly), and pull their pants back up in order to truly be potty trained. This does not mean that they won't need some help from time to time -- they will. Desire: Children who are ready for toilet training will show an interest in all things potty-related. They will carefully observe others who are using the toilet. They express a desire to wear big girl panties or big boy underwear. They will attempt to sit on the toilet. These expressions of interest are probably the biggest and most important signs that a child is ready for potty training. When a child exhibits all of the above indicators, it is time to haul out the potty chair. Though the process is sometimes tedious and frustrating, just think how nice it will be when diaper changes are a thing of the past!
The copyright of the article Potty Time in Infants & Toddlers is owned by Teresa Simpson. Permission to republish Potty Time in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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