Toilet Training - Signs that it is now time!

Toilet training is a significant milestone in a child’s development, and determining the right time to start is crucial. While there isn’t a universal age when children should be potty trained, there are several signs of readiness to watch for. Understanding these signs can guide parents in initiating toilet training when their child is both physically and emotionally ready.

Physical signs

As your child grows and develops, there are certain milestones to look out for when it comes to potty training. These include improvements in bladder control, predictable bowel movements, and the development of necessary motor skills. When your child can hold urine for longer periods and the diaper stays dry for longer stretches, this is a good sign that they are ready to start potty training. Regular and somewhat predictable bowel movements are also an indication that their digestive system is maturing. The ability to walk to the potty, pull down pants, and climb onto the toilet are necessary physical skills that your child will need to master before fully transitioning to using the toilet.

Behavioral signs

As a parent or caregiver, it's important to be aware of some early signs that your child may be ready for potty training. These signs include a curiosity about the toilet or potty chair, which could involve observing parents or older siblings using the restroom. Your child may display a desire for independence in other areas, such as wanting to dress themselves. They may also express discomfort with dirty diapers, or even try to remove them. Another sign is when they show initiative by telling you they need to go or holding it in until they can use a toilet.

Cognitive and developmental signs

Parents and caregivers should look for signs of recognition, such as when their child indicates or tells them when they need to use the toilet. While not all children have developed language skills, they should be able to communicate their needs through gestures or signs. By being patient and supportive, parents can help their child successfully navigate this process.

Jean-Jacques Wyndaele et al. (2020) conducted a study about the developmental signs that are related to toilet training and whether children are ready for it (please the table below). However, it is important to remember that every child is different and that there is no single set of signs that can guarantee success.

Table from Wyndaele, J. J., Kaerts, N., Wyndaele, M., & Vermandel, A. (2020). Development Signs in Healthy Toddlers in Different Stages of Toilet Training: Can They Help Define Readiness and Probability of Success? Global Pediatric Health, 7, 2333794X20951086.

Emotional signs

It's important to pay attention to your child's cues and willingness to try. If they show resistance or fear, it might not be the right time to start. However, many children want to please their parents and take pride in their accomplishments, such as using the potty. By creating a positive and supportive environment, you can help encourage your child to take this important step towards independence. According to N. Kaertz et. al., (2012) parents should also praise the child for successes and be patient with accidents.

Other tips:

Comparison is a no-no. Every child is unique. While one child might be ready at 18 months, another might not show signs until after their third birthday. Resist the urge to compare your child's progress with that of siblings or peers.

Consistency is the key. Occasional signs of readiness might not mean it's time to start. Consistent signs over several weeks are a better indicator.

Trust your gut feelings. Parents often have an intuitive sense of when their child might be ready. Trust your gut feeling; if you believe it's time, start slowly and gauge your child's reactions.

References:

Kaerts, N., Van Hal, G., Vermandel, A., & Wyndaele, J. J. (2012). Readiness signs used to define the proper moment to start toilet training: a review of the literature. Neurourology and urodynamics, 31(4), 437-440.

Wyndaele, J. J., Kaerts, N., Wyndaele, M., & Vermandel, A. (2020). Development Signs in Healthy Toddlers in Different Stages of Toilet Training: Can They Help Define Readiness and Probability of Success?. Global Pediatric Health, 7, 2333794X20951086.

Written by:

Dr. John Adduru

Founder - Lighthouse International School