Toddler potty training tips

Toddlers learn bladder control at their own pace, so try not to compare your child’s progress with others. Potty training takes patience; it’s a big step for your little one. These potty training methods and tips can help you support them calmly through the process.

When to start potty training

Potty or toilet training will only be frustrating for both you and your toddler if you introduce it too early.

Look out for these signs of potty training readiness:

• They’re aware of their dirty or wet nappy
• They know when they’re weeing and might even tell you they’re doing it
• They show interest in the toilet (they might see you use the toilet and want to copy)
• Having a dry nappy for at least 2 hours can be a sign they are starting to hold wee for longer
• They fidget, squat or hide when making a bowel movement

How to start potty training

It’s easier to start toilet training for toddlers in the summer so there are fewer clothes to wash and drying them is quicker. Here are some general potty training techniques for parents:

• Ask your toddler every 2 hours throughout the day if they need to use the potty
• Talk to them about wet and dirty nappies to help them understand
• Consistency is important, stick to a potty training schedule and share it with others who are also taking care of your toddler
• After meals is generally a good time to encourage them to sit on the potty
• Going out? Take the potty with you
• If you always change their nappy in the bathroom, they’ll begin to recognise that’s where they need to go if they need the toilet
• Leave the potty where they can see it, and if you live in a two-storey house, keep one upstairs and one downstairs so they are easily accessible
• To help your child stay seated on the potty, give them a book or their favourite doll or toy to play with
• Put them in clothes that are easy to change; the fewer buttons and zips, the better
• Offer lots of encouragement when your child starts succeeding. A sticker chart will serve as positive reinforcement
• If you know when your toddler usually has a bowel movement, leave their nappy off and offer them the potty instead
• Never punish them for having an accident
• Keep their nappy on at night until they’re ready for night-time training. This will be when they wake up most nights with a dry nappy

Handling potty training accidents

Frequent accidents are a completely normal part of the learning process. There may be many puddles to mop up and clothes to wash, but try not to make a big fuss. Be prepared and stock up on cleaning products and mattress protectors.

How long does potty training take?

Many parents start potty training between two and three years old, and most children master bladder control by four. However, every child is different; your toddler may be ready to start potty training much earlier, or they may need some more time.

You want your toddler to get used to the potty and make it part of their daily routine. But if they get upset by the idea, it means they are not ready, so keep the nappy on and try potty training again in another couple of weeks.

When to seek further support

Potty training happens at a different pace for every toddler, and setbacks are completely normal, so try not to worry if progress comes in fits and starts. If your child has hard or painful poos, fewer than 3 poos a week, bleeding, tummy pain, soiling, or starts holding poo in, speak to your health visitor, GP, or another healthcare professional.

For more guidance and tips, explore the Capricare® Parent Support Hub.