When to Start Potty Training

Parenting can be a wild ride. Apart from the magical journey, we somehow can’t skip the potty training phase and, oh boy, what a ride it is. 

Being a mom of five you’d expect me to be an expert, and easily drift into the phase of potty training, but I can confidently say that no two kids are the same – some learn quicker and others just don’t enjoy the process. And some are simply not ready at all; those are the keywords to an easy transition. As a parent, you shouldn’t have unrealistic expectations, you just need to be patient with your tiny ones.  

As challenging as it may be, there are also some hilarious stories that come with the journey. Kids are little sponges so be prepared for the funny and embarrassing moments too. Everyone goes through this. My middle child asked from outside my bathroom cubicle, “Mom, do you have enough wet wipes, and did you manage to hold it till we got to the bathroom?” They sure do learn quick enough. 

My third born is generally a quiet child. On our way to a restaurant I kept asking her if she needed to go to the bathroom. She assured me that she’s fine but low and behold, just before we got there, she had a guilty look on her face (bless her heart). We didn’t want to make a fuss and came up with a ‘whoopsie, everybody poopsies” song. Like adults, kids get embarrassed too so it’s important to explain that it’s OK and accidents happen. 

I believe that potty training can only be a success once your toddler is ready and curious about toilet time, and exhibits signs of readiness. Your toddler may show some of these signs or none at all, depending on their personality. As the parent, you know them best and will pick up on cues so follow their lead. Here are some behaviours I’ve picked up on with my kids:

• Less diaper usage 
• Hiding away while doing a number 2 
• Starting to show interest in bathroom time and spending more time in the bathroom asking questions 
• Tugging and pulling at their nappy, asking to remove it or removing it themselves 

We chose to start potty training when our kids were around 2 and a half years of age. The warmer seasons are also best because it’s easier for little adventurers to get in and out of their clothing.

• Stock up on Pampers Pull Up Pants and tons of undies – buy value packs because you will go through many in a day.
• Get a child seat. One that fits on a regular toilet just to make your child feel safer. We also got a step stool to help them access the toilet much easier. You can use a potty too.
• Get a timer. Or set a timer on your phone for toilet time every 30–45 min. It’s up to you if you’d like to keep up this routine even when you’re out and about, but do pack nappies!
• Wet wipes. Many of them for any spills. Remember, with little ones, accidents can happen in a matter of seconds. 

Let your toddler choose their underwear. Make this an exciting task. Ask, “Do you want to wear the PJ Masks or Peppa Pig undies today? Let’s put on your big kid undies today.” Keep disinfectants (in a safe space) for any clean-ups and let your growing angel help you clean up after their messes. Also, for washing up time, involve them and keep things fun by asking, “Do you want to use the dinosaur soap or Spider-man soap today?”

This is a phase of parenting that takes lots of patience and commitment and not only from mom, dad and caregivers, but also your toddler. So remember to encourage toilet intervals at least every 30–45 min. While on the toilet, read a book, sing a “potty” song and talk to your young one. Make them feel comfortable and celebrate the small wins with tons of praises, hugs, kisses, high-fives, small rewards and “well dones”! Make it a priority for them to see just how proud you are but don’t go overboard with rewards or they won’t go to the loo if you don’t have a biscuit in hand, LOL.

Now that we have all the rules and what not to do out of the way, help your little cutie understand the independence of going to the bathroom, and have lots of patience. You will have many accidents and spills but it’s all a part of the journey. What made this even more fun for us was getting the “No More Nappies” Potty training book from Woolworths that’s endorsed by Dr Amanda Gummer. And just a little tip for parents, it helps if you memorise the potty time song.

Remember, like every stage of parenting, it all flies by so quickly, so enjoy these magical moments and make this learning experience a good one for both you and your child. 

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The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this article/post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Woolworths or any of its affiliates, directors, officers, employees and/or advisors.